Dennis Fredrick Wood, of Kimberling City, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, August 19th, 2025.

He is preceded in death by his parents Glenn and Alene Wood, brother Gary Wood, and many other dear friends and family.

Dennis/Dad/PawPaw is lovingly remembered by his wife, Nellie; children, Korie Miller (Jon), Kevin Wood (Mary), Chad Bright (Mary), Jason Bright (Kristy), and Dusty Bright; grandchildren, Jaxon Miller (Natalie), Kamden Miller (Arisa), Kylie DeLay (Caden), Brooklyn Bright, Mylie Bright, Henley Bright, and Hannah Bright; great-grandson, Wyatt Miller; and his extended family, and the many friends he chose to call family as well.

Born on November 24th, 1944 in Des Moines, Iowa, Dennis spent his early years working the farm with his parents and brother, where his hard work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit were instilled. He gave his life to Christ as a young boy and went on to live a life marked by faith, service, and character. In Iowa he married and had two children before moving to Kimberling City, Missouri where he delighted in life on the lake for over 50 years.

His affection for the lake showed in years of boat rides (tubers be warned), fishing/hunting trips, and cruise vacations. Dennis was an avid sports fan, ranging from the Reeds Spring Wolves to the Mizzou Tigers, and he could cheer on the Kansas City Chiefs and St. Louis Cardinals from wherever he was in the world. His friends and family knew him to love playing games of Mexican Train Dominos, Rook, and Phase 10.

Dennis was known as a leader, both spiritually and in service to his community. Dennis had many occupations throughout his life, but his time as a Missouri State Representative and Stone County Commissioner are what summarize his community activism best. He devoted over 20 years of his life to public service, where he was respected for his dedication, honesty, and unwavering commitment to doing what was right. Whether it was helping a neighbor or going the extra mile for someone in need, Dennis served with a joyful heart and unwavering integrity.

More than anything, Dennis was a family man. He and Nellie were married for 39 beautiful years. Their marriage was a testimony to the love of Christ—marked by patience, prayer, and a full boat dock. Blended, they raised five children, and were later blessed with seven grandchildren, and one great-grandchild, all of whom brought him immense joy and pride.

His greatest calling, however, was his faith in Jesus Christ. A devoted member of First Baptist Church of Kimberling City for over 50 years, Dennis lived out his beliefs daily— through various ministries serving as a deacon, teacher, mentor, and prayer partner.

Dennis is now rejoicing in heaven, reunited with loved ones who went before him, and no doubt telling a good joke or two at the gates. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, generosity, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Services will be held on Saturday, August 23rd, visitation at 10 AM, followed by a service at 11 AM at First Baptist Church of Kimberling City. Interment will be at Rivermonte Memorial Gardens in Springfield at 2 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the First Baptist Church of Kimberling City Legacy Fund, in honor of his memory and values.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Stumpff Funeral Home, Kimberling City, MO.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:21