Mrs. Mary Ruth McKee-Wood

Mary Ruth McKee Wood of Saddle Brook, NJ peacefully went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, November 17th, 2019 at The Hackensack University Medical Center in Hackensack, NJ. Ruth was born May 19th, 1956 in Lumberton, NC, the eighth child of the late Lorenza & Hester McKee. Ruth accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior when she was twelve years old, was baptized at that time and joined the Hilly Branch Baptist Church. She is preceded in death by three sisters--Clara Lamb, Verna Smith and Linda Glover. Ruth obtained her education in North Carolina. She graduated with honors from The Fair Grove High School, Fairmont, NC in 1973 & The Fayetteville State University in Fayetteville, NC in 1978, with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business. Soon after her college graduation, she relocated to New York City and began her very successful career. Her first employment was with Alexander & Alexander in NYC the second largest insurance brokerage company, and the largest retail insurance broker in the world. Her next venture was with Marsh & McLennan Companies, the world’s leading professional services firm which provides advice & solutions in the areas of risk, strategy and people. Ruth was never satisfied with just an education and doing a good job. She took advantage of the continuing education opportunities offered by each one of the companies. She completed numerous training classes and was designated a fully licensed Broker. After this achievement, she moved to New Jersey and secured her current position at Turner Surety & Insurance Brokerage, Inc. as a Senior Surety Analysis. Her clients consist of large general contractors, trade contractors and security firms. She maintained her diligence effort to her clients until her health failed. Ruth married Terrence Wood on August 17th, 1997 and became a loving wife and a devoted mother to his daughter Tara Wood. Ruth is survived by Terrance Wood her loving husband. Her nephew Woodrow Smith, whom she always referred to as her son. Her daughter, Tara Wood Castle and three grandchildren—London, Madison & Jason Castle; one brother Ronald McKee of Lumberton, NC, three sisters—Doris Speller of Huntersville, NC, Lajoan Addison of Lumberton, NC & Maxine Davis of Rowland, NC. two sisters in law-- Gabrielle Fields of Franklyn MA & Lolita Wood of Delray Beach FL, two brothers in law – Frank Davis of Rowland, NC & Raymond Wood of Delray Beach FL, and a host of nieces, nephews & cousins. Ruth touched the lives of many and was known for her fun-loving spirit, her fashionista style & her generosity to all. Her memory will be treasured by her family & all who loved her. Mary Ruth will be very dearly missed. Services entrusted to -Colvin Funeral Home, Lumberton, North Carolina.

Mrs. Mary Ruth McKee-Wood

May 19, 1956 - November 17, 2019