Elizabeth Louise Wood
Elizabeth Louise Wood (nee Mast), affectionately known as Louise, peacefully passed away on July 7, 2023, in Belvidere, New Jersey, at the age of 69. She was born on November 11, 1953, in Greenwood, Delaware, to Lawrence Mast and Carolyn Swartzentruber Mast.
Louise will be remembered with great fondness for her big heart, liveliness, and joyful spirit. Her fun and magnetic personality drew people to her from all walks of life. Louise possessed a unique talent for putting others at ease. Throughout her remarkable life, she cultivated enduring friendships and was known for her unwavering love, openness, generosity, and compassion. Louise’s bright laughter was infectious; her smile and legendary hugs offered comfort and solace. She was an adventurous and intellectually curious soul, fearlessly embracing new experiences and always seeking to expand her horizons. Louise lived and loved authentically; ever widening her circle of care over the years.
Louise was deeply committed to social justice and consistently stood up for what she believed was right. Her love extended beyond her close-knit family and friends, as she dedicated herself to creating a more loving, fair, and kind world. Louise’s faith was an integral part of her life, manifesting in her deep love, service, and care for others.
Louise was multi-talented and achieved success in various fields throughout her career. Beginning as a kindergarten teacher, she later thrived in the accounting field, holding several senior-level positions. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish Elite Software Solutions, an accounting software consulting business. After retiring, Louise channeled her abundant energy into new endeavors, working in the home healthcare and retail sectors.
During her leisure time, Louise delighted in organizing and hosting unforgettable gatherings for her family, friends, and beloved grandchildren. Her annual Grandma Camp and Octoberfest celebration were greatly anticipated events. Louise had a wide range of interests, including reading, cooking, singing, dancing, and golfing. She enjoyed traveling and riding her Harley. She found joy in the outdoors, whether tending to her garden, taking leisurely walks or camping. She enjoyed visiting museums, theater productions, and playing guitar. Louise was also known for her spirited competitiveness in games, always ready for a good-natured challenge.
Family held an immeasurable place in Louise’s heart. She is survived by her siblings: Karen Alderfer (Steve), Dale Mast (LuAnne), Charlene Mast, Jay Mast (Carol), Kevin Mast (Ailyn), her children: Patrick Dyson (Tonya), Freida Candido (David), Dylan Wood (Dana), Yetta Wood, Catherine Dyson (Chris), and David Wood. She was a loving grandmother to twelve adored grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Louise also leaves behind a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Her former husband, Larry Dyson, also survives her. Preceding her in death were her parents, Lawrence and Carolyn Swartzentruber Mast, her husband David Wood, and her children, Jenifer Dyson, and Matthew Dyson (Shyron).
A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 15, 2023, from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM at Finegan Funeral Home, 924 Second Avenue, Alpha, New Jersey 08865. Following the visitation, a funeral service will take place at 1:30 PM at the same location. Burial will be held at 3:00 PM, followed by a repast at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 830 Fifth Avenue, Alpha, New Jersey 08865.
Flowers are welcome, or donations may be made in Louise’s memory to Project Self-Sufficiency in Newton, New Jersey, or the American Heart Association.
Louise will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in peace and may her legacy of genuine love and inclusivity continue to inspire and touch the lives of many.