James C. Hood's Obituary
Like most Americans who grew up during the Great Depression, James Charles Hood developed values and a work ethic that would guide his life. Born on September 9, 1925 in the deep south of Thomaston, Georgia, he was one of nine children who quickly learned the value of a dollar and the importance of being thrifty. He matured into a thoughtful man of few words – a man who never raised his voice but made himself heard when it mattered.
ANSWERING THE CALL OF MILITARY SERVICE
At 17, James left home to join the US Navy and see the world. One day, after three years of service, he decided to retire from the Navy. He was in Athens, Greece at the time; he crossed the street to the US Air Force Recruiting Office and never looked back. For 22 years, he traveled the world and enjoyed his assignments in Greece, Italy and the Scandinavian countries. During this time, he married Louise and raised two daughters. Although he continued to travel, he held tight to their Friday night tradition of steak and potatoes whenever possible.
Back in America in civil service, he was stationed at the McChord Military base in Washington. He turned his mechanical skills to the maintenance and repair of aircraft, helping to unload planes and prepare them for service.
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
James’ first marriage ended in divorce when he was in his early forties. Then, at a party one night in 1967, he saw Lois and invited her to dance. Lois had just finalized her own divorce; this was just the first of many things they had in common. They were rarely apart fom that day forward. They became a family with Jim’s two daughters Nora and Bonita and Lois’ four daughters; Carolyn, Gwendolyn, Pamela and Sherry.
CRUISIN’
Jim and Lois shared a love of camping, fishing and travelling. They crossed the country more than once, starting out in a yellow bus that Jim adapted into their “first motor home” complete with bunk beds, a fridge, stove and dining area. Over the years, they towed their boat with a series of four motor homes, each one bigger and more luxurious than the last. Their favorite stops were Dawson Trail in Manitoba, anywhere near the ocean, and Niagara Falls. They loved their boat ride on the Maid of the Mist and thoroughly enjoyed their Caribbean cruises.
Whether visiting a new town or right at home, Jim and Lois could always be found at the local dance hall perfecting their square dancing moves. With lessons, full costumes and years of practice under their belt, they were prominent members of two clubs; the Hicks ‘n Chicks and the Bonnie Lads and Lasses.
After 37 years together, Jim and Lois decided to make their union official. Without a word to the family, they visited the Park Wedding Chapel in Reno and came home wearing wedding rings.
THE A to Z SHOP
James taught his girls to be economical, to always keep a full tank of gas and avoid credit cards. He never bought anything he could not pay for with cash. As the original recycler, thrifty and inventive, it made perfect sense for Jim to open his second-hand store – the A to Z Shop – after retiring from the military. While to some he was a junk collector, Jim believed that everything had value and a purpose. He became known far and wide as the expert appliance repair person who always had the parts people needed.
THE PICTURE OF RELIABILITY
James was nothing if not consistent. He wore his blue work pants, blue shirt over an undershirt and hat like a uniform. Occasionally, the blue pants would be replaced by more forgiving overalls. He always wore a watch, smoked a cigar and kept a pocket full of pens and a notepad. He relied on his notepad to keep his life on track. He was a loyal man who could be counted on to fix anything and everything.
Over the years, he never changed. He sported the same crew cut, the same glasses and the same warm, friendly smile. “Pops” will be fondly remembered as a generous man, a man of strict values and much love for his family. One who cared for his own dogs and put food out every night for the stray cats. A man who tended his vegetable garden, admired beautiful roses, and especially loved the sunshine. James passed away in the home he loved on August 6, 2012.
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