Robert Vandiver (Van) Wood, age 64, of Dahlonega, Georgia went home to Jesus on September 23, 2021.

He was born in Tucker, Georgia on September 8, 1957, to the late Rahland V. (Buck) and Gladys Wood of Dahlonega.

He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Jennifer Wood, and son, Christopher Wood; and sisters Patsy Gastley, and Dona Jean Smith. He is survived by his beloved son, Andy Wood; sister, Dianne Burton; brother, Victor Wood and wife Linda; sister, Cheryl Wood and Lt. Col. (Ret) Robert Suchke; brother, Keith Wood; aunt, Clara Mae Ramey; lifelong friend, Gary Williams; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Van was a proud Marine Veteran often reflecting on his service at Parris Island, SC, Cherry Point Marine Corps Air Station, NC, El Toro MCAS, California, the Philippines, and Okinawa, Japan with the United States Marine Corps. He was a kind, gentle, and loving soul who was always quick to tell a joke. You will never pass by another Waffle House without thinking of Van who was a loyal and frequent patron where he often met his friends John, Doug Bob, and Muff, plus many more.

He lived the Marine Corps motto Semper Fidelis, 'Always Faithful', in every way. He was a faithful servant to God, a faithful brother, son, and father to his family, a faithful Marine to the Corps, and a faithful companion to his friends.

Graveside Services will be held at 2:00 PM on Monday, September 27, 2021, in the cemetery of Dahlonega Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the graveside from 1:30 PM until the service hour. The family asks that if you choose to attend, please wear a face mask.

Flowers will be accepted; however, the family asks that in memory of Van, you take a moment every chance you get to "Thank a Veteran".

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever."

To share a memory or a condolence with the family visit Mr. Wood's online guestbook at andersonunderwood.com .

Anderson-Underwood Funeral Home, 2068 Highway 19 North, Dahlonega, GA 30533