History & Staff
We have years of experience caring for families, from all walks of life. Each family comes to us because they know we are leaders in our profession, dedicated to excellence in service, and have the highest integrity.
Our History
Wood Family Funeral Service was established in 1983 by Jerry
and Barbara Wood, who faithfully served the community of Tehachapi until their
retirement in 2007. Looking forward, our desire is to build on the strong
relationships that have been forged in the past and to maintain the level of
service and personal touch only a family-run operation can provide.
We consider
it a privilege that you have selected us to assist you during one of your most
difficult times, and we are dedicated to meeting the needs of the Tehachapi
community for many years to come.
FD License #1405
CR License #277
Our Valued Staff
Sally Periman Lawrence, Office Manager
Sally moved to Tehachapi in 1999 and began working for Wood Family Funeral Service in 2006. She holds the position of Office Manager and is certified as a funeral arrangement counselor. Sally is very involved in her church activities, as well as a variety of other interests. She enjoys participating in many of Tehachapi's community events and is active in the Tehachapi Chamber of Commerce.
Kim Lemons, Administrative Support/Crematory Operator
Kim began her career at Wood Family Funeral Service in October 2014 and completed training as a crematory operator. With a background in accounting, Kim also handles insurance claims and provides valuable administrative support, helping to keep the office running smoothly.
Kari Munoz, Arrangement Counselor
Sharon Gerard, Receptionist
Sharon joined the Wood Family in July of 2019. She brings with her experience from a 30 year career as School Secretary and Administrative Assistant.
Sierra Pluff, Funeral Director
Sierra Pluff began her career in the funeral profession in 2008 as an apprentice embalmer. During that time, she received extensive training and experience with the care and preparation of loved ones. As she continued to grow, Sierra gained experience in many aspects of the profession: using graphic arts to create memorial stationery and tributes, preparing and recording required state and county documents, directing funeral services, and making funeral arrangements. Sierra is both a licensed funeral director and prearrangement counselor. For her, it is an honor to serve families during the most difficult time in their lives. She believes that the funeral profession has taught her much about true compassion and service. Sierra strives to provide a meaningful experience for the families served by helping to create unique, personalized tributes to honor the lives of the individuals who have passed.
Equally rewarding to Sierra is her commitment to donating whole blood every 56 days. With type O-negative blood, she is considered a “Universal Donor.” This means that her blood can be provided to any individual in an emergency. To date, she has proudly given life to 477 individuals in need.
Sierra moved to Kern County in the summer of 2019 and joined the Wood Family Funeral Service team in January 2020.