Kenney Wood

1963 - 2024

James Kenney Wood, beloved husband of Julie Wood, passed away in Lethbridge on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at the age of 60 years.

Relatives and friends were invited to meet the family at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Taber Stake Centre, 4709 - 50 Avenue, Taber on Friday, October 18, 2024 between 6:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. and also at the church prior to the funeral service on Saturday, October 19, 2024 between 9:30 A.M. and 10:30 A.M.

The Funeral Service was held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Taber Stake Centre, 4709 - 50 Avenue, Taber on Saturday, October 19, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. Burial followed at the Barnwell Cemetery.

Kenney will be deeply missed by many, especially his wife and five daughters, Amy (Brock) Wilde of Sylvan Lake, Brooke (Rope) Smith of Lethbridge, Kelsie (Truman) Long of Lethbridge, Paige (Parker) Smith of Magrath, Abby Wood of Utah and by his ten adoring grandchildren; his sister Cheryl (Bob) Bullock of Barnwell, their family and by numerous members of the Anderson family.

Kenney was born in Edmonton on November 9, 1963, to Jim and Jeri Wood and moved to Lethbridge shortly thereafter where he spent his childhood and teenage years, forging many lifelong friendships. His love for sports grew during this time as he played baseball, volleyball, basketball and enjoyed skiing and fishing and had the opportunity to play volleyball for a year at Lethbridge Community College.

From 1982 to 1984, he served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Anaheim, California.

On June 28, 1986, he married Julie Anderson in the Cardston Alberta Temple. They began their life together in Lethbridge, where he worked for Alberta Treasury Branch and their daughters Amy and Brooke were born. Their journey took them to High Prairie next, where Kelsie was born and then to Claresholm, where Paige and Abby joined the family. Kenney worked at the local Credit Union and Investors Group. In 2006, he began a new chapter at Western Financial in Taber, leading to their move to Barnwell, where they built the home they cherish. Throughout these years he formed many lasting friendships.

Kenney was dedicated to coaching, sharing his passion for sports at various levels. Known fondly as "Coach Kenney," he loved coaching young athletes, imparting lessons not only in sports but in life. His commitment to service extended to his church, where he found happiness and fulfillment, especially his time as a Bishop as he mentored and spent time with youth. He enjoyed serving all those he could, young and old alike.

Kenney was known for his great sense of humor and zest for life. He had a unique gift for connecting with others, ensuring everyone felt valued and loved. His favorite place was wherever his family was, whether working in the yard or traveling abroad, he loved it all.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Kenney’s name may be made directly to W.R. Myers High School (Athletic Department), 5511A - 54 Street, Taber, Alberta T1G 1L5.