Brenda Wood

Brenda Sumerlin Wood passed away July 9, 2026 at the age of 77. She was born February 18, 1949 to the late Marvin Sumerlin and Marion Louise Moore Sumerlin.

Brenda was known for her warmth and her infectious sense of humor, brightening the lives of those around her with kindness and a joyful spirit. She lived her life loving her children and grandchildren immensely, their happiness and well-being always at the center of her world. Her generosity knew no limits; she was benevolent and giving, always ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear.

A proud alumna of Hicks Memorial High School in Autaugaville, Brenda’s early promise led her to earn her degree from Troy University in Montgomery. She carried her education, coupled with her natural compassion, into a distinguished career in human resources. Brenda first lent her expertise to People’s Bank in Selma, before making a profound impact as the Vice President of human resources for the Vaughan Regional Medical Center, where she served for many years. Her journey then led her to serve as human resources director for the Dallas County Commission, where her dedication touched countless lives and earned respect and admiration.

Brenda’s commitment to her community was matched only by her love for her faith. She was a member of Ivy Creek United Methodist Church and, over the years, also attended Autaugaville Baptist Church. Her spirituality was woven into her actions—always seeking to uplift, to comfort, and to inspire.

Beyond her professional accomplishments and community engagement, Brenda cherished the simple joys of life. She relished days spent eating out at restaurants and shopping. Brenda found happiness in vacationing years ago to Orange Beach and Gulf Shores with her family, memories of laughter and togetherness that continue to bring comfort to those who loved her. In her younger days, she had a passion for playing the piano, filling her home with music and joy.

She was, above all, an outgoing soul—a happy person whose good humor was a gift to everyone she met. Brenda’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know and love her, a testament to a life lived with compassion, joy, and unwavering devotion.

She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Philip Benjamin "Chip" Wood, III; children, Natalie Wood (Al) Griffin, Stephanie Wood Motley, Philip B. "Phil" (Astrid) Wood, IV; grandchildren, John Bishop Griffin, Damon Griffin, Gabe Griffin, Kristin Griffin, Haley Vinson, Blaire (Patrick) Thrasher, Philip B. Wood, V and Ashley Wood and Kennedy (Johnathan) Smith; great-grandchildren, Micah Griffin, Bentley Griffin, Rylan Griffin, Harper Hicks, Maggie Vinson, Piper Vinson, Molly Thrasher, Hayden Wood, Oakley Wood, Hallie Wood, Philip B. "L.P." Wood, VI, and Hope Smith; siblings, Marvin McKay "Mackey" (Ann) Sumerlin and Patrick (Beth) Sumerlin and a host of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be Monday, July 13, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. in the chapel of Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home of Selma. Interment will follow at Ivy Creek Cemetery in Autaugaville. Visitation will be on Sunday evening from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

The family will accept flowers or you may consider memorial donations to Ivy Creek United Methodist, to the Missions Fund in her memory; 3068 AL Highway 14 W, Autaugaville, Alabama 36003