James Z. Wood Sr.
"Texas Jim"

   James Z. Wood Sr., age 81 years, of Caledonia died December 25, 2008 at Conesus Lake Nursing Home, Livonia, NY.  The son of Banks D. and Helen (Zellner) Wood, James was born August 26, 1927 in Shelby County, Tennessee and raised in Kilgore, TX. After working the oil fields in Texas, he served in the US Army during the Korean War. Education was important to Jim, and he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business, while working full time to support his family. He and his wife Rose settled in Caledonia in 1959. He took the job as general manager of Burnwell Gas Distributors. He spent 28 years building Burnwell into a thriving business. He was beloved by his employees as well as his family and friends. Jim was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion Post 255, and Caledonia Lions Club.  He was an avid Texas Longhorn fan, excellent golfer and he and Rose were the "couple to watch" on the dance floor. Jim had a way of turning a phrase, and was noted for his original nicknames and quotes reflecting his southern background, such as "Step aside shallow water, let the deep sea roll…"  He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Rose; children, James Z. Wood Jr., Rosanne (Carl) Worden all of Caledonia, Pamela (Joseph) Chiocca of Manassas Park, VA, John Wood of Boulder, CO; 5 grandchildren, Amanda Hailstone, Joseph Worden, Anthony Chiocca, Adam Worden, Michael Chiocca; 3 great-grandchildren, Jacob Hailstone, Brynlee Worden, Sydney Hailstone; sisters, Wardell Smith and Lillie Smith; several nieces, nephews, including special niece Janey Savage.  His mother and father, Helen and Banks and brother, Gerald Wood predecease James.

   Friends called Sunday, December 28, 2008 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Alhart Funeral Home, 3068 West Main Street, Caledonia. His Funeral Mass was held Monday, December 29, 2008 at 11:00 AM at St. Columba Church. His interment was held at St. Columba Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Caledonia Ambulance, PO Box 3, Caledonia, NY 14423 or Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.