Paul Wood, 76, passed away on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, surrounded by the people he loved most.

Paul was born on November 11, 1949, in Nashville, Tennessee, to Louis and Bessie Wood. He grew up in North Nashville alongside six brothers and one sister, forming the strong family bonds that would remain important to him throughout his life.

In his young adult years, Paul met the love of his life, Shirley. They were married on June 2, 1969, and shared 57 wonderful years together, building a life filled with love, laughter, and memories that will last forever.

Paul's career led him into the solar industry in the early 1980s, where he installed some of the first solar water heating systems in Tennessee and neighboring states. What began as a new and emerging technology became a lifelong passion, resulting in a remarkable 50-year career installing solar water and pool heating systems. Many would consider Paul a pioneer in the industry.

Paul was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He had one son, Joseph, whom he loved dearly, and one granddaughter, Taylor, who was truly the light of his life.

In 2007, Paul was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma. Rather than focusing only on himself, he chose to participate in clinical trials so that advancements could be made in the treatment of bone cancer. Through his selflessness, researchers, medical professionals, and future patients benefited from the knowledge gained during his nearly 20-year battle with the disease. Paul never let his diagnosis define him. His sense of humor, kindness, and ability to make others laugh made him a favorite among family, friends, caregivers, and medical staff alike.

In his later years, Paul remained lighthearted, loving, and grateful for every day he was given. He did not take his time on earth for granted and lived with a deep appreciation for the people around him.

Paul was deeply loved by his family and will be missed every day until they meet again.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley Wood; his son, Joseph Wood (Paige); his granddaughter, Taylor Wood; his sister, Estelle Ray; his brother, Virgil Wood; his nephew, Matt Wood, whom he loved as a second son; and many other cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Bessie Wood; his brothers, Mike Wood, Dennis Wood, Bethel Wood, Herbert Wood, and Ross Wood.

The family finds comfort in knowing that Paul's legacy of love, laughter, perseverance, and service to others will continue to live on in all who knew him