Debra Wood

Obituary for Debra Wood

On September 15, 2025, a warm light in the Tucson community faded out. Debra Lynn Wood, beloved mother, grandmother, teacher, and friend, passed away at the age of 67. She was born on August 30, 1958, as Debra Hartley, and lived a life full of curiosity, compassion, and dedication to others.

A lifelong lover of both mathematics and dragons, she blended imagination with intellect in everything she did. She earned her undergraduate degree in Mathematics and Computer Science from the University of Illinois in 1988, and later pursued her Master’s in Mathematics Education at the University of Arizona.

For decades, she served as a math instructor and lecturer at the University of Arizona, where she became known for her tireless commitment to her students’ education. She inspired countless young minds with her passion for learning, her patience, and her unwavering belief in the potential of every student. One of her greatest prides was when students returned to her office thanking her for the excellent foundation in mathematics she provided them - and even more so for the care she showed them as a student and as a person.

Outside of the classroom, her greatest joy was her family. She leaves behind her loving husband of forty years, James Henry Wood, as well as her mother, Evelyn Hartley, and three brothers, David (Teresa) Hartley, Mark (Lynne) Hartley, and John (Diane) Hartley. She is also survived by her two adult children, Dan (Caroline) Wood and Liz (Ryan) Svoboda, and her nine cherished grandchildren, who will carry forward her legacy of love, laughter, and curiosity.

Her life was one of generosity and quiet strength. She gave without hesitation to her family, her students, and those fortunate enough to call her friend. Her presence and her wonderful mind will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A service to honor her life will be held at Bring’s Broadway Chapel on Tuesday, September 23, 2025. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital (https://www.stjude.org/).