Jeannette Wood
February 19, 1932 – January 9, 2021
Jeannette passed away, comfortably, at her home in Woodway, WA on January 9, 2021 after a long struggle with dementia. Born in Auburn, NY, to Nick and Rose Picciano, Jeannette attended Cornell University and earned a degree in Home Economics in 1953. It was at Cornell, where Jeannette met the love of her life, Ross Wood. They were married on Jeannette’s birthday, February 19, 1955 and spent the next 57 years together until Ross’ passing in 2012.
In 1959 Ross received an offer to work for the Boeing Company. They decided to come out west and try it for a few years. They never went back. Ross and Jeannette settled in Woodway in 1965. Jeannette was active in her community, serving on the Woodway Town Council for 6 years and also served as Woodway Mayor. In 1988 Jeannette was appointed to fill a vacancy in the State House of Representatives, she successfully ran for three terms as a Representative of the 21st Legislative District. In 1994 she was appointed to the State Senate where she served until 1999.
Jeannette was a strong supporter of education and served on the Edmonds (Community) College Foundation Board from 1990-1997. She was appointed to the Edmonds (Community) College Board of Trustees, by Governor Gregoire in October 2006 and served until September 2011. Jeannette was a Rotarian, member of the Edmonds Chamber of Commerce and active in numerous charitable organizations. Jeannette was long-time, active member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Edmonds.
Those that were lucky enough to know Jeannette loved her for her compassion, honesty and wisdom. You always knew exactly where Jeannette stood on a subject, but she was always willing to listen and consider other’s opinions. Jeannette did not suffer fools lightly, yet would be your strongest supporter if you were open and honest. She was a fierce proponent of women’s rights and worked hard for equal rights, for all. Jeannette was an extremely talented seamstress, sewing wedding dresses (and bridesmaid dresses!) for her daughters and daughters of family friends as well as creating many beautiful vestment robes for the lucky Parish Priests.
Jeannette is preceded in death by her husband, Ross, sister, Carol and grandson, Benjamin. Jeannette is survived by her six children: Ross (Kathy), Chris (Shannon), Jon (Carolyn), Therese (Bruce), Bridget (David), Megan (Jack); 13 grandchildren and 1 great-grandson.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Edmonds College Foundation: www.edmonds.edu/foundation/give/default.html.
Funeral mass will be held at Holy Rosary Church, Edmonds on January 29, 2021 at 11:00 am.
Share memories at www.beckstributecenter.com.
What a wonderful public servant and friend to south Snohomish County. Jeannette was an inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to work with her through her government activities, service club roles, and other community engagement. I am grateful to have known her and learned from her. May she rest in peace.
I was fortunate to have the pleasure of working with her for 10 years as her legislative assistant. She didn’t treat me as an employee, more like a part of her family. She was one of the most principled and respected people I have ever known. She had a heart of gold and was always helping people. She dedicated her life to her family, her church, her city, her local college, and to the state. She will be missed.
My sincere condolences to the family. My prayers to you all. I know she is in heaven with her loved ones.
Mark Johnson
Olympia WA