About Kathy & Jerry Wood

Imagination, Dedication, and Hard Work

Franklin J. (Jerry) Wood, was born and raised in Mamaroneck, New York. After serving as an Army photographic technician in the Pacific during World War II, he earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Virginia in 1948. He moved to Annapolis, Maryland, and worked in the family’s doll business, Richwood Toys, until it closed in 1958. In 1959 he established the Annapolis Sailing School, which soon became the largest commercial sailing school in the United States, and is still an industry leader.

Kathryn Marie (Kathy) Wood was born and raised in New Jersey and moved to Annapolis, Maryland, in the mid 1960s. She loved sailing and was an avid competitor. Kathy immediately became involved in the local racing scene, met Jerry, and the couple married in 1968. She immediately became involved in the business and was instrumental in its success.

In 1970 Jerry and Kathy established the first in-water, all sailboat show in Annapolis Harbor. The show was an instant success and revolutionized the boat show industry. Within two years, consumer demand lead to the establishment of a second show, the United States Powerboat Show. These shows are still the largest of their type in the world. Kathy and Jerry were credited with helping to establish and shape the modern recreational boating industry, and were major contributors to the growth of Annapolis as the “Sailing Capital of America.”

Jerry passed away on February 19, 2003. Kathy passed away on June 19, 2005.

Although Kathy and Jerry never had children of their own, their businesses employed over 3,000 young people over the years. Kathy and Jerry were very proud of helping guide scores of young adults along the work ethic and responsibility path, moving them up and out in the world to become well rounded qualified people. Hence, the Kathy and Jerry Wood Foundation...