Jeffrey "Zach" Wood

Jeffrey Zach Wood, known throughout his life simply as Zach, age 54, passed away at his home in Wichita, Kansas, on August 24, 2026. Zach was born May 31, 1972, in Mooreland, Oklahoma, to R.D. and B.J. Wood. Their only son, Zach, was deeply loved and brought great joy and pride to his family throughout his life.

After graduating from high school, Zach went to work alongside his father. Together, they built and operated an oil and lube business for many years. Zach later became an important part of the family’s self storage business, helping maintain and care for the properties over the years. He also owned and maintained several car washes throughout the Wichita area. Zach was a hard worker who wasn’t afraid to get his hands dirty, fix something that needed fixing, or take on a new challenge.

From a young age, Zach had a love for anything fast. He especially loved race cars and raced on the dirt track circuit for many years. His passion for cars never left him. He loved Corvettes, motorcycles, and just about anything with an engine and some speed behind it. But there was much more to Zach than cars and work. He loved music, spending time at the lake, boating, cooking out and simply sitting around visiting with friends and family. Zach was charming, outgoing, funny, incredibly smart, and quick witted. He could make people laugh, and a conversation with Zach was rarely dull. He had a generous heart, enjoyed being around people, and was always willing to visit, lend a hand, or share a laugh.

Zach was the father of his son, Maxwell Jacob Wood, 21, whom he shared with Julie Wood Beyer. Max carries many pieces of his dad with him, including Zach’s quick wit and his love of music and fast cars. These are pieces of Zach that will continue on through his son. Later in life, Zach married Brandie (Deroulet) Wood.

Most importantly, Zach knew the Lord. He was a firm believer in Jesus Christ and was never afraid to talk about his faith or share it with others. His family takes great comfort in knowing that Zach is now in Heaven with Jesus.

Zach was preceded in death by his grandparents on both his mother’s and father’s sides.

He is survived by his parents, R.D. and B.J. Wood; his son, Maxwell Jacob Wood; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and friends who loved him dearly.

Zach was the highlight of his family from the day he was born, and the space he leaves behind can never be filled. He will be remembered for his laughter, his wit, his stories, his generous heart, and the unmistakable personality that made Zach simply Zach.

Funeral Service will be 1:00 pm, Friday, August 28, 2026, at Downing & Lahey West Mortuary. Services will be live streamed and available to view by clicking the “Watch Funeral Service” button below.

 Zach, we love you more than words can ever say. We are thankful for every year, every memory, every laugh, and every moment God gave us with you. God bless you, Son. We know you are with Jesus now. We will love you and miss you always.