Obituary of Arthur W. Rood

On Wednesday, January 1, 2025, Arthur William Rood, surrounded by his loving family passed away at the age of 89. Art was born to Exton and Hester Rood on September 11, 1935. He graduated High School in 1953 in Bloomfield, NY and continued his education attending mGeneseo State College. Art knew his career was in the field of Education. He graduated from Geneseo State College in 1956 and went on to graduate from Iowa University with a degree in School Administration in 1957.

Art started his career by teaching 6 th Grade at Victor Elementary School in Victor, NY. He was involved with Special Education classes for children who needed extra attention and encouragement to be successful. Eventually, Art accepted a job as an Elementary Principal at North Rose in Wolcott, NY. With his experience, Art found his niche as High School Principal at Hunter-Tannersville Central School which he later became Superintendent. Art was instrumental at creating a multitude of enrichment and alternative programs, which assisted in encouraging students to continue their education. Art was blessed to serve the HTC community and cherished the relationships that he created. He was fortunate to work at a job he loved, making an impact on the lives of others he touched throughout his career.

Art lived a remarkably busy life. He volunteered as a Boy Scout Leader and with the Rotary Club for many years. Art was proud to be a Mason for over 60 years and was a member of the Town of Lexington Democrat Club. He was a dedicated volunteer for the American Red Cross, working in Texas, Florida and the Catskills, helping people recover from the devastation of hurricanes. It gave him a deep sense of purpose helping neighbors when Hurricane Irene hit the Catskills. Art also worked for the American Red Cross instructing local emergency medical responders in continuing education classes.

Art was an active member of the HTC Alumni Association, having assisted in the creation of the organization. Art had many hobbies that gave him great pleasure. He even had his pilot’s license and enjoyed flying his own airplane. Throughout the years Art loved to travel and camp with his wife and in retirement they enjoyed spending winters in Florida.
Art’s love for his family was so very deep and only outshined by his love for his wife. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He enjoyed family celebrations and quality time with his loved ones. He was a wonderful listener who will be missed by all who knew him.

Art is survived by his loving wife of 34.5 years, Joyce Dart Rood; Daughters Pamela Rood, Anne (Ethan) Brady, Virgina (John) Ramos, Christine (Craig) Werth and Susan Terrill; Sons Michael (Carol) and Jeff (Patty) Terrill; Grandchildren Josh Rood, Ethan and Olivia Brady, Christopher Wagembaugh, Brandon (Rachel), Abigail, Brianna, Cassidy, Jeremy (Sarah), Zachery Terrill, Joseph (Brittany) Gould, Brittany Gould and Sara Gould;  Thirteen Great-Grandchildren; Sister-in-law Linda Falke; and many nieces and
nephews. Art was predeceased by his parents.

A private Memorial service will be held at the Lexington-WestKill church for family and close friends. Memorial donations may be made to the Lexington-WestKill UMC in Art’s memory.