October 12, 2024, 97, Grantham —

Manfred Jennings Hood, 97, of Grantham, passed away peacefully at UNC Health Wayne in Goldsboro surrounded by his loved ones on Saturday, October 12, 2024. Born in Wayne County on December 9, 1926, Manfred was the son of the late Grover and Emma Rose Hood. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Durwood Hood, Gordon Hood, Joe Dan Hood, Jean Hood, James Hood, and Horace Hood; and sisters, Elizabeth Smith, Agnes Harrell, and Ruth Bennett.

Manfred was a farmer from an early age on the family farm in Grantham. He had a love for the land that ran deep and he was happiest with his hands in the soil. His life was always centered on his family, farm, and faith. He was a member of Selah Christian Church and was always present to worship amongst those of like faith.

Manfred had served as a yard foreman for W.P. Rose Supply in Goldsboro and as a special survey technician for the Census Bureau. For 16 years, he served Wayne County as a magistrate.

Taking out his hunting dogs and finding a covey of quail to stir was a favorite pastime in earlier years. Through all of his days, the love of golf always filled him. If it was a beautiful day, he enjoyed being on the links sharing shots and laughter with his friends.

A servant in every aspect, Manfred was proud to be a member and leader of his community. He was a Mason for over 60 years with the Mount Olive Masonic Lodge #208 and was a member of the Wilmington Consistory Scottish Rite.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. at Selah Christian Church followed by a service to celebrate Manfred’s life at 11:00 a.m. in the sanctuary with Rev. Patrick Muston and Rev. Michael Burkette Hood presiding. Interment will be in Falling Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.

Manfred is survived by his beloved wife of 76 years, Dolores Sauls Hood; sons, Manfred J. Hood, Jr. and wife, Gail, Doug Hood and wife, Carol, and Brad Hood and wife, Elizabeth; daughter, Lou Braithwaite and husband, Gavin; eight grandchildren, twenty-three great-grandchildren, and nine great-great-grandchildren.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be given in Manfred’s memory to Selah Christian Church, 1332 Selah Church Road, Four Oaks, NC 27524.

Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.