Larry Alvin Wood, a beloved voice of the airwaves and a quiet giant in the Jackson, Tennessee community, passed away on August 5, 2025, in Jackson. He was 71 years old.
Born on February 8, 1954, in San Angelo, Texas, Larry’s journey into broadcasting began before most kids even think about their future. At just 12 years old, he was already working at WASL 100.1 in Dyersburg, Tennessee, a station his family owned. While the “W” was required for stations in this part of the country, the Wood family always joked it also stood for “Wood,” followed by A for Alvin (his father), S for Shirley (his mother), and L for Larry and his sister, Linda—a nod to the deep family roots that ran through the station.
Larry would go on to become a radio legend in Jackson, serving for many years as the Station Manager and Program Director of 101.5 News Talk. Known for his steady leadership, quiet integrity, and profound generosity, Larry shaped not only the soundwaves of West Tennessee but the lives and careers of countless others in the industry. He was a man who truly wanted others to succeed, always offering fairness, encouragement, and whatever tools or support were needed. There was no part of radio—from programming to promotion—where Larry’s presence wasn’t felt or his help wasn’t offered.
But for all his professional success, Larry’s greatest pride was in the people he loved. He was a man who led not just with his voice, but with his heart. To those closest to him, he was more than a broadcaster or leader—he was a provider, protector, encourager, and father.
Larry is survived by his loving wife, Merideth Allyn Wood, and by his son and daughter-in-law, Art and Angela Stroh. Though technically a stepson, Larry and Art never saw one another that way. Larry became part of Art’s life when he was a young boy and, in every meaningful way, became his father. In Art’s words: “Many men become dads, but few ever become fathers. Being a father requires selflessness, commitment, and most of all sacrificial love. In all of these, my father excelled.”
He is also survived by his two grandsons, Tate and Liam, who were a constant source of joy and light in his life—his “sun and stars.” His love and pride for them knew no bounds.
In addition, Larry is survived by his sister Linda and her husband Don, whose boundless hospitality and generosity have long held the Wood family together through holidays, celebrations, and life’s ups and downs.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Shirley Wood.
A public memorial service will be held in the near future. This obituary will be updated when that has been planned.
Larry Alvin Wood’s voice may no longer grace the airwaves, but his legacy—as a broadcaster, leader, father, husband, brother, and friend—will continue to echo in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
