Elizabeth L. Wood

Elizabeth Louise "Betty" Wood, age 92, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and devoted friend, passed away peacefully on November 15, 2023, in Lake Forest, Illinois. Born on June 23, 1931, in Hollywood, California, Betty was the beloved daughter of the late Robert E. Slater and Dorothy Louise Slater nee Bristol. Betty received her education in Glendale, California, before attending the University of California Santa Barbara. It was during these formative years that Betty cultivated her love of music, an appreciation passed down by her mother, a piano teacher. On marrying her husband, Robert Wood, she became the caring matriarch of a devoted family. Betty was the proud mother of three sons, Paul (the late Corinne) Wood, Michael (Sandra) Wood, and David (Brenda) Wood. She was also a cherished grandmother to Ashley, Brandon (Anastasia), Courtney, Dayle, Claire (Andrew), Henry, Brion, and David. Betty was predeceased by her brother, Robert A. Slater and his wife Dolly. The majority of Betty’s adult life was spent in Springfield, Illinois, where she raised her sons. Betty was a longtime member and an avid volunteer at the Laurel United Methodist Church in Springfield. Her dedication to her faith and community was evident in her selfless actions and steadfast commitment to service. Her love for her family eventually led her and Robert to move to Lake Forest, Illinois, to be closer to their sons and grandchildren. Betty loved to dance and was a proud member of the Golden Girls, a tap-dancing troupe of vivacious women aged 60 and above. Her time spent dancing with these ladies was a testament to her spirit and youthful energy. Highlights of her Golden Girls years were their annual performances at the Illinois State Fair. Betty was also an avid quilter, winning numerous awards at the Illinois State Fair and Lake Forest Place. Betty was not only dedicated to her immediate community but also to those less fortunate. She exemplified this through her role as a proud organizer and member of a knitting group at Lake Forest Place. The group devoted their time and resources to providing socks, hats, and other necessities to Erie Family Health Centers for children in need, showcasing Betty’s unwavering kindness. Betty’s life was filled with love and laughter, music and dance, faith and service, warmth and generosity. She touched many lives and left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who loved her. Her memory will be cherished by her surviving family and a host of friends. Betty Wood’s legacy of love and service will continue to inspire those who were blessed to know her. In lieu of flowers, donations in Betty’s name may be made to The Geneva Foundation of Presbyterian Homes at www.presbyterianhomes.org/geneva-foundation/ A memorial service at Lake Forest Place is being scheduled for a future date. Her place of final rest will be at Mann’s Chapel Cemetery, Rossville, IL. For additional information, Reuland & Turnbough Funeral Directors of Lake Forest at www.RTfunerals.com or (847) 234-9649.

Elizabeth L. Wood

June 23, 1931 - November 15, 2023