Avelina Frances Wood

Avelina Frances Wood went on to her next great adventure on July 14, 2006. Her exhilarating presence will be sorely missed by family and friends.

An accomplished artist, Avelina enjoyed her association with the Artists of South Whidbey. Her many interests and activities included the South Whidbey Garden Club, League of Women Voters, the Democrat Club and membership in the Langley First Methodist Church.

She was born in Fairfield, Calif. In 1921, the family moved to Oakland, Calif. where Avelina grew up and attended the University of California.

In her second year of college she married Harry Erroll Wood, who encouraged her to complete her education during succeeding years and the birth of a daughter and two sons. After acquiring a master’s degree in education, Avelina taught elementary grades for many years. She served in the Peace Corps after the sudden death of her husband in 1970 and, changing careers, worked for the San Jose Fire Department and then the San Jose Police Department as a staff analyst. Upon retirement, she took up painting as major interest.

She was preceded in death by both parents, Marshall and Elena Waugh; and by her son, Kerry Wood, in January of this year. She is survived by her daughter Danene Relamos and son Craig Wood of San Jose, Calif.; brother and wife Alfred and Carol Waugh of Pleasonton, Calif.; sister and husband Mary and Aubrey Weeks of Chehalis; seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and several fond nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life is planned for 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 5 at the Langley First Methodist Church, with a reception following in the social room.

Avelina requested that in lieu of flowers, any memorial gifts be sent to the Southern Poverty Law Center, 400 Washington Ave., Montgomery, AL 36104 or to the organization of your choice.