Vivian Wood, 96
May 27, 1928 – May 22, 2025
Vivian Dale Sappington Wood, affectionately known as Dale Wood, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025, just shy of her 97th birthday. Born on May 27, 1928, in Wallerville, Mississippi, to the late Wylie F. Sappington and Susan Blanche Cobb Sappington, Dale grew up surrounded by a large and loving family. She departed this life in New Albany, Mississippi, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and service that will be cherished by all who knew her.
Dale was a proud graduate of Ingomar High School, after which she pursued her passion for caring for others by earning her nursing credentials at Houston Hospital School of Nursing. Throughout her esteemed career as a Registered Nurse, she worked at various medical facilities where her dedication to her patients and her craft earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues. Dale was a member of Hillcrest Baptist Church.
In her personal life, Dale was the beloved matriarch of her family. She is survived by her devoted son Verl Wood, Jr. “Buddy” and his wife Kelly; her adored grandchildren, Daniel Wood (Amy) and Hannah Wood; her cherished bonus grandchildren, Alex Lott (Leah), and Morgan Whitehead (Ryan); and her treasured great-grandchildren, Zeke Wood, Esther Wood, and Scout Huddleston. She will also be fondly remembered by her brothers Bill Sappington and Jerry Sappington. Dale was predeceased not only by her parents but also by four sisters and four brothers.
Dale’s interests were a reflection of her loving and passionate spirit. She was an enthusiastic quilter, creating beautiful works of art that were as warm and comforting as her presence. Her passion extended beyond her hobbies to her deep commitment to helping others. Dale’s love for service was perhaps most evident in her dedication to medical mission trips to Honduras, where she volunteered her skills to improve the health and lives of countless individuals in need.
The words that best describe Dale are loving and passionate. She approached every aspect of her life with a genuine warmth and a deep enthusiasm that inspired those around her. Dale’s nurturing nature was not confined to her family and friends; it was a gift she generously extended to her patients and the communities she served on her mission trips.
Dale’s life was a testament to the impact one person can have on the lives of many. Her legacy is one of selfless service, boundless love, and a passion for making the world a better place, one person at a time. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were touched by her compassionate heart.
Services to honor her life will be Friday, May 30, 2025, at 1:00 pm at United Funeral Service with a visitation beginning at 12:00 pm. Burial will be at Academy Cemetery. Officiating will be Bro. Steve Denton, and Bro. Don Chandler, and the NE MS Nurse Honor Guard.
United Funeral Service is honored to be entrusted with these services.
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
