It is with deep sorrow and profound love that we announce the passing of our cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and beloved family matriarch, Beatrice "Bea" Lelaine Thomas Wood who departed this life on July 12, 2025 at the age of 80.

Born on February 6, 1945 into a large and loving family, Beatrice was one of seven siblings, some of whom she helped raise with the same steady hand, fierce devotion, and boundless care that she later extended to her own children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was the rock of our family—a source of strength, wisdom, and unconditional love whose presence could calm storms and brighten the darkest days. She is preceded in death by her mother, Alice Steele, and father, Edward Thomas, siblings David Thomas, Jeffrey Thomas, and Polly Gilsdorf.  She is survived by her brothers, Danny Thomas and Andy Thomas, and her sister, Melodie Thomas.

Her devoted son and daughter-in-law also survive her, Martin & Angela Wood of Charlotte, NC, and her loving daughter and son-in-law, Tracie & Kinte Kilpatrick of Chattanooga, TN, who carry forward her legacy of grace and resilience. She is preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Elizabeth Wood, whom she held close in her heart every day.

Beatrice was a proud and joyful grandmother to five grandchildren: Ashley Wood, Tyler Harmon, Michael "Spencer" Harmon, Logan Grooms (married to Matthew Grooms) and Luther (L.J.) Tate and a doting great-grandmother to four precious great-grandchildren, Taliyah Jones, Noah Willis, Annie Grooms, and Jackson Grooms. Her home was always filled with laughter, warmth, and the delicious smells of her cooking—a gathering place where everyone felt welcomed, loved, and known.

In addition to her immediate family, she is survived by beloved family members Sylvia Evans and many nieces, nephews, and cousins

She had an extraordinary gift for loving people—whether family or stranger—and she touched the lives of all who crossed her path. Her heart was generous, her spirit unshakable, and her faith in those she loved unwavering.

Beatrice, with her faith in God, taught us what it means to live with compassion, humility, and fierce loyalty. Though our hearts are heavy, we are comforted by the countless memories of her stories, her laughter, her hugs, and her strength.

A celebration of her life will be held on Thursday, July 17, 2025 at Miller Funeral Home in Maryville at 2:00 pm. In honor of her legacy, the family asks that you carry her spirit forward—by loving big, giving freely, and being a rock for someone in need. The family will receive friends from 12:00pm to 2:00pm. After the service, family and friends will immediately reconvene at Clark's Grove Cemetery, 3217 Williams Mill Road, Maryville, Tennessee 37804 for the interment service. Arrangements by Miller Funeral Home.

Rest peacefully, in the hands of God, Beatrice Lelaine Wood. You will be forever missed and always remembered.