Ruby Vernelle Wood

Ruby Vernelle Woodson Wood of Shipman, Virginia, peacefully entered into eternal rest on August 5, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on June 20, 1947, to the late William “Andy” Woodson and Vernelle Culvahouse (Dallas), Ruby’s life was a beautiful testament to love, hard work, and unshakable faith.

 At the tender age of 14, Ruby met the love of her life, Billy Wood Sr., and together they built a life filled with devotion, family, and grit—working side by side in the logging woods and hayfields of Nelson County. Their love story was the kind that lasted a lifetime. Ruby was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Billy, whose memory remained a constant in her heart.

 Nearly 50 years ago, Ruby found her second home at Sunny Mountain Store. What began as a job blossomed into a legacy as she became the heart and soul of that little country store, eventually owning it for over 25 years. “Momma Ruby,” as the community lovingly called her, was more than just a storekeeper; she was a friend, a confidant, and a second mother to many. Even after selling the store, Ruby continued to pour her heart and soul into its success, staying connected to the place and people she loved.

 Ruby was known for her fierce independence, her sharp wit, and her unmistakable feisty spirit. She never shied away from speaking her mind, always with a twinkle in her eye and a heart full of love. Ruby’s sass and strength were a big part of her charm—if you knew her, you knew that fire inside her never dimmed. 

She was the eldest of her siblings, having been preceded in death by her parents, William “Andy” Woodson (Eloise) and Vernelle Culvahouse (Dallas), her husband Billy Wood Sr., her brothers Bo Woodson (Susie) and Ronald Woodson, her sister Helen Ward and niece Sarah Woodson. She leaves behind a loving family who will carry her memory forward including Siblings Grover Woodson, Joan Davis, Lois Knapp, William Woodson, and Shirley Woodson.

 Her greatest pride was her family. Ruby’s legacy lives on through her children: Billy “Pete” Wood Jr. (Nikki), Frances Wood, Dallas Wood (Lynnette), and Gloria Tolbert (Jason); her grandchildren: Billy III “Bud” Wood, Dallas Jr. “DJ” Wood (Melanie), Christopher “Nick” Wood, Cody Tolbert, Elizabeth Deel, and Jacob “Jake” Tolbert (Rachel); and her great-grandchildren: Waylon, Dalton, and Luna Wood; Wilson and Gunnar Wood; Abigail Wood; Macie Deel; and Sadie and Justin Tolbert. 

She also shared a special bond with her beloved niece, Beverly “Dee Dee” Kanary, and her treasured cousin, Mariann “Peewee” Smith.

 Ruby also had a cherished four-legged companion, her cat “Little Bit,” who never left her side. Little Bit was her constant shadow, her comfort, and her quiet friend, bringing joy and companionship. 

In her final months, Ruby faced life’s journey with the same grace, grit, and feisty spirit that defined her. Her favorite words, spoken with a knowing smile, became her mantra: “Don’t worry about me. Me and God got this. I will be OK.” 

Ruby’s unwavering love, her firecracker personality, and her deep faith have left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her. She was a rock, a matriarch, a friend, and a light in the lives of many. Though she has gone to her heavenly home, her legacy of kindness, resilience, and sass will forever live in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

 Family will greet friends starting at 3:00 pm Saturday August 9, 2025 at Ridgecrest Baptist Church, Lovingston VA. Service to follow at 4:00 pm officiated by Rev. Dr. Mike Fitzgerald.

Family and friends may sign her virtual guestbook at www.WellsSheffield.com

Arrangements by Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel, Lovingston (434-263-4097).