Ron (James Ronald) Wood, age 75, joyously ran through the gates of Heaven on May 2, 2023, into the arms of Jesus!

He began living life at its fullest July 20, 1947, in Knoxville, later moving to Newport, White Pine, Morristown, Dandridge & most recently retiring in Knoxville.

Ron, as he proudly told everyone, met and married Mary Henegar the “love of his life” 41 years ago.

He was the loving father of Miranda Wood (Lowell) Gilland of Dothan, AL and Jason Ronald Wood of Hickory North Carolina. He deeply cherished the time he spent with his grandson, Tyler James (Danielle) Quisenberry of Baden, PA and Lexi Wood of McMinnville, TN. He was equally proud of and loved his great-grandchildren, Emerson Quisenberry and Atticus Robinson.

In addition, Ron is survived by sisters-in-law Gail Wood and Joyce Parker; brothers-in-law, Jimmy (Tracy) Henegar and David Henegar; nieces and nephews: Darby, Tami, Ryan, Tonya, Jason and Daniel, along with numerous great nieces and nephews; loving cousins: Craig, Phyllis, Jack, Phil, Michelle and Dee.

Many of Ron’s friendships quickly turned into one of family; a few of those include: Jerry (Elot) Cotter, Tony and Cami Sook, Laura Jackson, Ross Litz, Billy Majors and Pastor Jake Spence.

Ron was greeted into Heaven by his loving parents: Carroll and Vivian (Buddy) Taylor of Knoxville and James Harry Wood of Newport; mother-in-law Jewell Henegar of Knoxville. We are sure that his older brother Roger (Bubber) Wood of Marietta, GA, was holding the gate wide open for this much awaited reunion.

He always had a hug, smile and laugh for everyone he saw, whether he had known them for years or just met.

He was a musician, pilot, golfer, builder, electrician, UT Football Fan, avid reader, pool player, jokester, runner, hiker, and he loved to talk! He spent hours studying the Bible and was always full of questions for anyone that could help him learn more.

He began his life in Knoxville attending grammar school, then moved to Newport Tn for the rest of his education.

His first High School job was as a horse guide to Mt. LeConte, after which he continued to enjoy by hiking on foot all his adult life and was very eager to share the best trails, sites and tales with everyone. His life adventures also included playing in the House band for Ober Gatlinburg (when it was at its peak), member of several Southern Gospel Bands, Studio Drummer, Tour Pilot for Smokey Mountain Airport in Sevierville and Electrician at Stokely Van Camp.

For the last 39 years of his career, he Owned and operated SpaKiva & Salon in Morristown TN with his wife Mary.

During those years Ron was honored to have shared some of his most treasured memories with his SpaKiva Family. He laughed, celebrated, prayed through and often cried through life’s moments with many of his friends that started out as clients. He was known for his hugs, laughs, abundant gift of gab and knowledge of the most unique and fun topics. Numerous Moms were always proud to share with their Pediatricians during Labor that Ron’s Prediction of their baby’s sex was more accurate than their Ultrasounds!

Ron was very active and had been honored by numerous local and state organizations for achievements and philanthropy. He had served on numerous State Boards promoting the beauty industry.

His biggest passion was serving on numerous Church related Boards and Committees over his lifetime, whether as a Deacon, Musician, Event Planner, Door Greeter or emptying garbage cans. He wanted others to feel that love and connection that he held with Christ.

A Celebration will be announced and held later to commemorate his wonderful life.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations may be made to the building fund of Grace Chapel Knoxville, PO Box 23555, Knoxville TN 37933 or you may donate online at: gracechapelknoxville.net (click on the banner across the top of website).

Ron’s favorite saying the last couple of months was….” God doesn’t promise Us a tomorrow, but He does promise Us a Forever. I am ready for My Forever.” With that…. Our Sweet Dear Ron You are forever in Our Hearts.

Arrangements by Mayes Funeral Home in Morristown.