Richard Lee Hood

Richard Lee Hood, a cherished member of the Blairsville community, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2024, at the age of 78. Born on January 10, 1946, in Blairsville, Georgia, Richard lived a life of dedication, love, and service. 

Richard was a proud veteran, having served honorably in the United States Army. His time in service instilled in him values of bravery and commitment, which he carried throughout his life. He brought those same qualities to his career in forestry, where he worked as a Chief Ranger for the Georgia Forestry, in Union, Towns, and Fannin Counties.

Richard was preceded in death by: his mother, Alice Hood; father, William Hood; his loving wife of 44 years, Hilda Hood; and daughter, Dana Hood.

Family was the cornerstone of Richard's life. He is survived by his beloved son, Damon Hood (Judy), and daughter, Danette Dale (Justin). His legacy also lives on through his grandchildren, including Haley and Emma Dale, as well as his step-grandchildren, Ashley Miller (Tyler), Kristen Ramsey (Caleb), Sterling Dale, and Jeremy Dale, and step-great-grandchildren, Cayden Miller, Braxton Miller, Olivia White, Mason Ramsey and Veronica Ramsey. Richard's grandchildren were truly his pride and joy, and he cherished every moment spent with them. He is also survived by his siblings W.H. (Sharon) Hood, Jerry (Carole) Hood, Cathy (Troy) Phillips, and Helen (Bill) Beavers.

An outdoor enthusiast, Richard had a passion for bird hunting, deer hunting, and fishing. He loved working with wood and building things. He took great joy in training and raising bird dogs and quail, often sharing his love for the great outdoors with his family. Together, they created lasting memories on camping trips, rooted in love and laughter. Most of all, Richard enjoyed helping others without wanting recognition. Richard was a devoted member of New Union Baptist Church, where he found strength in his faith and community. His life will be celebrated and remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Funeral services will be held on December 5, 2024, at Cochran-McDaniel Funeral Home, Blairsville Chapel, with Reverend Jonathan Hood officiating. The funeral service will begin at 2:00 PM, followed by a graveside service at New Union Baptist Church Cemetery. The following gentlemen will serve as pallbearers; Cayden Miller, Braxton Miller, Tony Harkins, Billy Nichols, Chuck Hood, and Jonathan Fortenberry. Bill Jones and Larry Sutton will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Visitation for family and friends will take place on December 4, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Cochran-McDaniel Funeral Home, Blairsville Chapel.Cochran-McDaniel Funeral Homes is honored to serve the family of Richard Lee Hood. Sign the guest register and send condolences at www.cochranmcdaniel.com.