Wood Eye Clinic Serving Pontotoc for 45 years come November
FFor more than four decades, Wood Eye Clinic has been proud to serve the Pontotoc community with trusted, comprehensive eye care. Wood Eye Clinic is located in the heart of downtown Pontotoc on Main Street.
Wood Eye Clinic was founded in November 1981 by Dr. Terry Wood, a Pontotoc native who knew from the beginning that he wanted to return home to open his practice.
“Our clinic has grown alongside the town we call home, while staying true to the values of personal care, family, and community,” said Dr. Terry Wood.
After graduating from Southern College of Optometry in 1981, Dr. Wood came back to Pontotoc, where he first opened his office in a small building across from The Progress. As his patient base grew, the practice moved in 1985 to 9 South Main Street.
Continued growth and the need for expanded services eventually led the clinic to its current location at 26 South Main Street. This move allowed Wood Eye Clinic to better serve patients with five fully equipped exam rooms, a larger optical dispensary, and an in-house lab where glasses can be made on site—often the very same day. Being located in the middle of downtown Pontotoc remains one of the clinic’s greatest joys, keeping the practice closely connected to the community it serves.
l-r: Dr. Terry Wood, Dr. Miranda Wood Maynard, and Dr. Caleb Warren
Family has always been at the heart of Wood Eye Clinic. In 2008, Dr. Miranda Maynard joined the practice. As Dr. Wood’s niece, she was excited to continue the family legacy and help ensure the clinic’s long-standing commitment to quality eye care. In 2023, Dr. Caleb Warren joined the team, bringing additional expertise and allowing the clinic to continue expanding access to care for patients of all ages.
Behind the scenes, the clinic is supported by a dedicated and experienced staff. Sarah Grace Golden, Dr. Wood’s daughter, helps run the practice as office manager, ensuring daily operations run smoothly. Christi Wallace, Dr. Wood’s technician for 26 years, brings decades of experience and a familiar, comforting presence to patients. At the front desk, receptionists Alana Anderson and Chelsea Conlee warmly welcome patients and assist with scheduling and insurance needs.
Each doctor is supported by skilled medical scribes, Katelyn Inmon, Shelby Knight, and Bailey Rynes, who help ensure thorough and efficient patient care. In the optical area, Savannah Moore serves as the clinic’s optical technician, helping patients find eyewear that fits their vision needs and personal style, making everyone feel special in their new glasses.
Wood Eye Clinic is proud to operate its own in-house lab, allowing for fast, high-quality eyewear services. The lab is managed by Katelyn Horton, with assistance from Chloe Thorne, and plays a key role in providing same-day glasses for many patients.
The clinic provides comprehensive eye care for patients of all ages. Services include routine eye exams, contact lens fittings, and the diagnosis and management of medical eye conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts. With advanced technology, experienced doctors, and a compassionate staff, Wood Eye Clinic is committed to protecting and improving the vision of every patient who walks through the door.
After more than 40 years, Wood Eye Clinic remains a cornerstone of downtown Pontotoc—rooted in family, dedicated to excellence, and proud to care for generations of patients in the community Dr. Wood has always called home.
Montgomery Drugs
Offering 50 years of excellent service in
Pontotoc
REGINA BUTLER BY
IIf there is a name that is synonymous with history and excellence it is Montgomery Drugs. Mr. Billy Quay Montgomery established the drug store 50 years ago at the corner of Marion and Main Streets in the heart of downtown Pontotoc. Incidentally, Montgomery got his start in the Day Drug Company in 1968 when he purchased an interest in the business.
When a new medical clinic was established on Hwy 15 Bypass, the pharmacy built a building beside it and moved there in 1997 to have easier access to the patients that would need their prescriptions filled.
Today Ken Clowers and James Randle are at the helm of the business, having bought it in 2004.
Randle said the business already had a well established reputation when he and Clowers bought into it.
“I knew Mr. Billy and I had worked with Ken at another store. When Mr. Billy approached us about buying the business, I felt like it was where me and my family needed to be and I’ve never looked back.
“Pontotoc is a great place to have a family and to do business. We have really been welcomed.”
They continue to keep the hometown Norman Rockwell style service that people love and have depended on these past five decades.
“We try to be personal and work with patients as individuals and neighbors,” Clowers said. “We are the only independent pharmacy in the city of Pontotoc. We try to keep as much of the traditional ways of doing things as we can.”
Clowers is quick to admit that the excellence would not be there if weren’t for the dedication of the employees. “They make our business. They go above and beyond the call of duty sometimes staying late to make sure the customers get what
they need. Our employees are the backbone of our business and the community and churches they are involved in.”
These employees include: Pharmacists Christy Mahon, Brian Credille, Kayla Gray and Anna Claire White. Office manager is Alison Tackitt. Pharmacy technicians include Tammy Conlee, Micaela Garcia, Reyna Diamond, Heather Reynolds and Mikayla Barnett. Cashiers are Jessica Ketchum and Glenda Hill.
In reflecting over the years Clowers said that he has been grateful for the wealth of knowledge he has gained from Billy Montgomery.
Mr. Billy Quay Montgomery
“Mr. Billy left some enormous footprints to walk in when he retired. We are thankful for his legacy and try to carry that on.”
The men are also grateful to be such a cornerstone of the community through their business.
“We live here,” Clowers said. “Most of us grew up in the county and went to school here. Those who didn’t grow up here did in surrounding counties. Pontotoc County is a special and unique place and we are honored to live and work in it.”
But hands down the most rewarding aspect of their business is the people. They love their customers and want to help them in the best way they can.
“We have been here nearly 50 years,” Clowers said. “We really try to help our community with their healthcare needs. We appreciate everyone’s support and loyalty to Montgomery Drugs. It means a lot to us. We thank you all for your support and patronage.”
“We try to be personal and work with patients as individuals and neighbors,“ Clowers said. “We are the only independent pharmacy in the city of Pontotoc. We try to keep as much of the traditional ways of doing things as we can.“
Medical Directory
HOSPITAL
North Mississippi Medical Center-Pontotoc
Hospital and Nursing Home
176 South Main Street, Pontotoc (662) 489-5510
24 hours
CLINICS
Pontotoc Medical Clinic
Dr. Stephen Montgomery
Dr. Jennifer Lowery
Dr. Andrea Warren
Tim Watson, NP
345 Hwy 15 North, Pontotoc
Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (662) 489-7430
Children’s Clinic Ecru
Jodilyn Ferguson - CPNP-PC
Lauren Parrish - CPNP-PC/AC
Rebekah Wilson Huey - CPNP-PC/AC
Treny K Emison - CPNP
Dr. Maria Valdez - MD
202 Main Street, Ecru
Monday – Thursday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. - Noon
Closed from 12 p.m. - 1 p.m. for lunch (662) 489-4345
14 East Marion Street, Pontotoc Monday - Thursday: 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. (662) 489-4741
Park Medical Clinic
“Back to the Heart of Small Town Medicine”
REGINA BUTLER BY
RRight in the heart of downtown Pontotoc is a small town medical practice that strives each day to offer that personal care and touch to patients that come to them for hope and help.
Dr. Chris Park, DO and his wife, Katherine first established their medical office on Jefferson Street than saw the opportunity to move to Main Street for their practice.
Park Medical Clinic came to Pontotoc July 6, 2020.
“Pontotoc is home,” said Dr. Park. “This is where my wife and I grew up and where we are raising our children. My hope was always to have a clinic downtown to serve our community.”
In fact his resumé includes: “I Graduated from Pontotoc High School, Itawamba Community College, Mississippi State University, and Kansas City UniversityCollege of Osteopathic Medicine. I did my Residency at NMMC Family Medicine Residency Center in Tupelo,” he said.
And he loves the fact that his clinic is a small family owned practice.
“Park Medical is a small, solo practice. You will probably see the same faces when you come in for a visit. We truly care about our patients, their progress, and their well-being.”
And by “we” he means all his employees that help with the day to day operations of his business.
“Our employees are vital to the success of our clinic and teach me every day how to be a better doctor,” Dr. Park said. “The nurses are Stefanie, Ginger, and Kristen. Shanda works in the front office. Reed Knight is our Physician Assistant, and Leslie Eaton is a Nurse Practitioner that works part time.
“Katherine, my wife, is our office manager. You may also find medical students from Liberty University, physician assistant students from Mississippi College, interns from the local high schools, or even a daughter or two helping our community.”
Dr. Park also offers services that are above and beyond the usual family medical practice.
Dr. Chris Park
Dr. Chris Park and wife Katherine
Shanda and Izzy Park
Leslie, Stefanie, Ginger and Kristen
“I have also been treating drug and alcohol addiction for over 20 years. I am glad that we can offer this vital service.”
But he knows he would not be where he is without those who walked on before him and gave him the guidance he needed to be the doctor he is today. “I’ve been challenged by many great doctors in our area. Dr. John Mitchell was an early mentor and inspiration to me. He showed me that patients are people and not a number. It’s a privilege to be a part of their healthcare and lives as well.”
And when he has found the time beyond his medical practice, Dr. Park has authored two books which include Drink this Book While Reading Your Morning Coffee, and How to Take Drugs.
The first book is a devotional book of sorts. “It’s not for those that have it all figured out.It’s for the rest of us.The ones looking and searching. The ones that know HOPE is the most dangerous idea of all. And his second book is for the ones trying to make a way where there is no way. The ones looking for second chances and escape routes.”
Dr. Park said it is important to have a local business in this community.
“Our tagline is “Back to the Heart of Small Town Medicine”, and that is what we strive to achieve. Pontotoc is a special place, and we are honored to serve right in the heart of it.
The most rewarding aspect of our business is helping others through difficult times.”
Dr. Reed Knight
South Main Dental
Continues to build something worthwhile in Pontotoc
REGINA BUTLER BY
WWhen it comes to dental health, Pontotoc is fortunate to have an office that has had more than 40 years continual service on South Main Street. Just two years ago, Dr. Carter Clayton and his wife/ dental partner Dr. Anna Grace Clayton decided to continue the dedication of the original founders.
Now for those of you who may not have lived in Pontotoc as long as others, this dental office was once a service station located on South Main Street below the Pontotoc Hospital. Dr. John Black converted it into a dental office those many years ago.
“We grew up in north Mississippi and always knew we wanted to own a practice together in the area. Pontotoc is the kind of place where people still wave, remember your name, and care about who you are, not just what you do. It was the perfect fit for us!” exuded Anna Clayton.
Dr. Carter said, “South Main Dental has been up and running in Pontotoc for over 40 years. We were fortunate to be able to purchase the office a little over two years ago.”
But both of them are quick to admit they wouldn’t be able to give the service they do without a dedicated team that keeps their business running smoothly and although they may be little bit biased, they think they have the best team around.
“Our administrative team (Angie Garrison, Peggy Roberson, and Melanie Holloway) keeps things moving from the moment someone walks in or calls us up. From scheduling to insurance and everything in between, these women will get you taken care of,“ said Dr. Anna.
“Our hygienists (Christy McGregor and Melissa Parker) are essential to our patients’ oral health. They take the time to clean, educate, and encourage patients, helping them understand how to care for their smiles at home.
“Our dental assistants (Charlee Knight, Megan Holloway, and Hannah Catt) work side by side with us to keep appointments running smoothly. Their steady presence makes all the difference in the world.”
And the couple believes they have much to offer that benefits the people of Pontotoc.
“We do our best to provide quality care to each and every person that walks through our doors. We value clear communication, fair pricing, and taking the time to do things right. Our goal is for each patient to leave our office feeling listened to, taken care of, and satisfied with their treatment.
“We believe our business is unique because we value keeping our business a small business,” said Anna. “We love having the control to make each decision when it comes to treatment plans, patient care, pricing and more. We also believe our staff sets us apart, we feel incredibly fortunate to have the best of the best!”
Dr. Carter said that he appreciated the values their predecessor left.
“Dr. Black definitely left us some big shoes to fill. He set a strong example of perseverance and dedication, and showed us that building something worthwhile takes patience, consistency, and integrity.”
A local presence in the community is important to the couple.
“Having a business in Pontotoc County means supporting a community that reflects the values we were raised with. Local businesses help keep small towns special, and we’re proud to contribute in a way that supports local families and the local economy,” Dr. Anna said.
And the rewards they reap are in the faces they see on a consistent basis.
“The most rewarding part is building trust and long-term relationships. Knowing that people come back because they feel respected and taken care of makes the work meaningful and worthwhile! Earning our patients’ trust is the biggest reward we could ever ask for,” Dr. Anna said.
And they are forever grateful to the people of the community who put their trust in them.
“We’re grateful for the opportunity to serve Pontotoc and be a part of its continued growth,” said Dr. Carter. “For the past two years Pontotoc has wrapped us in a warm hug, and we can’t thank y’all enough. Working in this community has been a dream come true! You’ve changed our lives, and we hope to be able to make a small difference in each of yours,” said Dr. Anna.
