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.
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.
Jason Wheeler, Arrangement Counselor
Jason Wheeler is a graduate of Los Angeles Pacific University with his Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Psychology. Prior to joining the team at Wood Family Funeral Service, Jason used his educational skills towards bettering others in the field of drug and alcohol counseling. After joining the Wood Family Funeral Service team, Jason has pursued his education in the mortuary field with the goal of obtaining his Funeral Directors license. Jason was ordained in his home church, Mountain Bible Church in Tehachapi, in early 2021 and was accepted into the online master’s program at Dallas Theological Seminary with the goal of obtaining his Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies. Having a heart to serve others, Jason has made sure that all of his skills and education remains geared towards counseling and consoling those in their greatest times of need.
Christal Wheeler, Arrangement Counselor
Christal Wheeler, born and raised in California, moved to Tehachapi with her family in 2015. Christal has worked in the event and wedding planning industry for 25 years. She obtained her International Event and Wedding Professional Certificate in 2014 and her Associates Degree in Business in 2018. She joined the Wood Family in 2019 as event coordinator for The Woods Pavilion and in 2021 joined the Wood Family Care Team as an Arrangement Counselor.