Leopold Francis Hood, Jr.

Leopold Francis “Paul” Hood, Jr., 92, of Portland, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, April 10, 2026.

Paul was born on January 23, 1934, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Sadie Elizabeth (Derbonne) Hood and Leopold Francis Hood.

After the passing of his beloved wife, JoAnn, Paul later married Bonita Goldstein of Bastrop, who also preceded him in death. He then found love again and married Sheila Faye Hood on December 10, 2022.

Paul proudly enlisted in the United States Navy in August 1954. Following training, he was stationed at the U.S. Naval Auxiliary Air Station in Kingsville, Texas. After four years of service, he was honorably discharged.

Paul was a man of deep faith who loved God, his family, his many friends, and bringing people together. He found his greatest joy when surrounded by loved ones—where there was always plenty of food, laughter, and storytelling. Known for his playful spirit, Paul loved teasing and joking with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, a trait that runs strong in the Hood family.

He was an active and devoted member of First United Methodist Church in Portland, where he volunteered faithfully. He taught Bible study, mentored others, and gave his time to numerous outreach efforts. Paul helped build homes with Habitat for Humanity and through the church Build A Home program. He participated in the Kairos Prison Ministry program, and was involved in Walk to Emmaus. Music was a special part of his life—he loved singing in church and at karaoke, especially classic country songs by artists like Merle Haggard.

Paul is survived by his loving wife, Sheila; and his five children and their spouses: Paula Gandara and husband Joe; Gary Hood and wife Tammy; Lydia Hood; Brenda Meyer and husband Nick; and Katy Ball and husband Devin. He is also survived by numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren who will carry on his legacy of love, laughter, and faith. He was preceded in death by his ex-wife, Gail Hood, his wife JoAnn Hood; his wife Bonita Goldstein Hood , his daughter, Karen Hood; his son, Steve Abell; his siblings Gordon, Steven, Louise, Lois, and Sue.

Paul will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his love of family, and the joy he brought to everyone around him. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 18, 2026 at 10:00 am at the First United Methodist Church in Portland, Texas. 

In Lieu of flowers, you may donate to Build a Home-FUMC Portland, one of Paul's many ministries.