Heather Marie Wood

Heather Marie Wood, 39, passed away suddenly on January 14, 2025, after a long struggle with pain and addiction. Despite losing Heather much too soon, we find peace in knowing that she has joined with our Heavenly Father and is now free from pain. Born on May 10, 1985, in Gaston County, NC, Heather was a loving daughter, mother, sister, and a bright light in the lives of many who knew her.

Heather was an incredibly caring person from the time she was a little kid, known for her kind heart and generosity. She would give the shirt off her back to help anyone in need. Family meant everything to her; they were her world, most especially her beloved son, Jayden. Her love of God was also a significant part of her life, giving her solace and support during difficult times.

Heather enjoyed spending time swimming and hanging out with her fiancé and their cats. One of Heather's other passions, which you would most definitely hear her gush about, was her infatuation with the character Dean Winchester from her favorite TV series, "Supernatural." She loved curling up and getting lost in the adventures of the show, and it became a fun way for her to connect with friends and family. Heather also loved anything hot pink, watergate salad (which she begged her sister to make every time she visited), goofing off with her loved ones, and singing along to her favorite rock songs.

Left to cherish the memories of Heather are her son, Jayden Wood; father, Alvin Wood, Jr.; mother, Candlela Wood; fiancé, James Galloway; sister, Amanda Wood; grandmother, Frances "Grandma Sue" Lyles; close friend, Jada Elmore Noah; and many other family and friends whose lives Heather touched.

A visitation will be held for Heather on Saturday, January 18, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Greene Funeral Service South Chapel located at 1503 S York Rd, Gastonia, NC 28052. Friends and family are invited to come together during this time to celebrate her life, share memories, and support one another in their time of grief. Guests may arrive at any time within this two-hour window.

Heather will be deeply missed, but her kind spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved her. We openly speak the painful truth of Heather's struggle with addiction because if even one life is saved by her story, it is worth it. If you or anyone you know is suffering from addiction, Heather's family encourages you to reach out for help; there are community resources including harm reduction, rehab, and counseling which can help keep you safe and healthy.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can go to Heather's GoFundMe to support her family in covering her end-of-life costs as Heather had no life insurance - https://gofund.me/26e7c477 - or you may wish to make a donation in Heather's name to your local harm reduction nonprofit. Olive Branch Ministry is a nonprofit providing harm reduction services in Gaston and several other nearby counties - www.olivebranchministry.org.

Arrangements are with the South Chapel of Greene Funeral Service. Online condolences can be made at www.greenefuneral.com.