Leon “Buddy” F. Wood Jr., formerly of Millville and Milltown, NJ, died on July 22, 2023.
 
Buddy was born and raised in Millville, NJ and many of his summers were spent working in the glass plant at the Wheaton Glass Company. His parents, Leon and Theresa F. Wood, Sr., had over 78 years of combined work experience at Wheaton. Over the years, Buddy developed a special relationship with Frank Wheaton Jr. who recognized his sales and business talents.
 
After attending Mississippi College for his bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Buddy returned to Millville to start his sales career at Wheaton, where he won several sales contests and began to make his mark on the industry. Glass packaging was his first and true love in business.
 
During his over 50-year career, Buddy also worked for Brosse Glass, Heinz Glas, NVM and later Libo Cosmetics, where he led the company in phenomenal growth.
 
Buddy developed life-long friendships in the industry and had a lasting impact on all the people he met.  He was a strong advocate for his customers while representing his companies. Many in the industry would describe him as a true legend.
 
He inspired his beloved daughter, Mallory Wood, to join the industry, and she now works for Lumson.
 
A Memorial Gathering will be held on Thursday, August 3rd, from 4pm to 7pm at The Crabiel Home for Funerals, 170 North Main Street, Milltown, NJ 08850.