By Jessi Black
In the heart of Corsicana, Texas, a husband-and-wife team is making a lasting impact — not just through their businesses, but through their commitment to community, family, and vision. Tyrone Hood and his family have spent the past decade building more than just income streams. They’ve created neighborhood institutions: Hood Service Company and YO! Catfish & Burgers.
Their journey began in 2015 when Tyrone launched Hood Service Company, a business focused on air conditioning and heating. With experience, a strong work ethic, and a natural entrepreneurial spirit, Tyrone quickly turned his passion into a sustainable and growing company. The Hoods originally operated out of a location on Oak Street for six years before relocating to 1503 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd in 2021. The move not only brought them closer to the community they call home, but it also opened doors to expand their services.
What started as a heating and cooling business has since evolved to include appliance sales and repairs. This expansion came about organically — when a customer once asked for help getting a window unit, the Hoods took it upon themselves to source it. That single decision sparked an entirely new direction for the company. Over time, they also began offering light electrical services after acquiring a small electrical company in 2020.
While Tyrone is the idea man — always thinking about what can be done next — his wife, Tara, is the one who handles the behind-the-scenes work. “Can we hold up?” she joked during an interview. “I’m the one that does the paperwork for all of it.” Despite the whirlwind of new ideas and ventures, the two work in sync, creating a business model rooted in trust and adaptability.
But their ambitions didn’t stop there.
In April of 2023, the couple launched a food truck as an extension of their vision, eventually leading to the opening of YO! Catfish & Burgers in early 2024. Located just down the road at 1801 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, the restaurant is a cozy, soulful spot offering comfort food with character. Initially launched as a mobile food venture, the truck quickly gained traction by catering large events, including one at Navarro College and another at the Benny Keith facility where they served over 300 people.
By January 2024, the food truck had transitioned into a permanent location inside a newly renovated building. This move allowed YO! Catfish & Burgers to establish a solid presence in the community.
Their story isn’t just about business — it’s about home. Tyrone was born and raised in the area, and both he and his wife are deeply connected to Corsicana. When asked about his inspiration, Tyrone recalled being a young boy living in an apartment, watching maintenance crews fix things around the complex. “I used to say, ‘One day, I’m gonna do that,’” he said. That dream has now manifested into multiple businesses that serve the community in meaningful ways. They have recently added mattress and bedding sales to their repertoire!
The Hoods are also known for showing up when it matters most. Whether it’s hosting a benefit event, serving free food, or just being a friendly, reliable presence, they bring a sense of community that goes beyond commerce. “Stuff like that means something,” Tyrone said. “It’s about being part of something bigger.”
Even with all they’ve accomplished, Tyrone continues to think about the next step. Tara, ever the voice of reason, keeps things grounded. “He’s asking what he should build next,” she laughed. “I said, give it a year, please.”
Whether it’s an air conditioning unit, an appliance, or a plate of catfish and fries, the Hoods are in the business of taking care of people. Their dedication, teamwork, and love for their hometown make them not just business owners, but community builders.