Margaret Elizabeth Pearson Wood was born January 17, 1963, in Ferriday, Louisiana, to Elizabeth Langford Robbins and Byron Pearson. She married her high school sweetheart and love of her life, Stan Wood, on September 18, 1982. She passed from this life in Mountain View, Missouri, on January 2, 2026, after a long five-year battle with cancer.
She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Stan Wood; parents, Elizabeth Robbins and Byron Pearson; grandparents; and brother, Robert “Red” Pearson.
Survivors include her son, John S. Wood III (Stephanie) of Springfield, MO, William “Bill” Wood (Becky) of Mountain View, MO; grandchildren, Mason Denning, Chloe Kelts, Gage Wood, Maddux Denning, Alley Wood, Kinsley Wood, Waylon Wood, and Moxie Wood; brother, David Pearson of Texas; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Margaret was, first and foremost, a loving mother whose greatest joy was her family. Margaret was a lifelong teacher, touching the lives of many students. She devoted herself to nurturing young minds and encouraging a lifelong love of learning. She believed in the potential of every student and taught with patience, compassion, and integrity, leaving a lasting impact beyond the classroom. The impact she had on students made them more like family. Many remember her not only for what she taught but for how she made them feel. She found great joy in being active and outdoors. She especially loved pickleball and tennis, where her competitive spirit and laughter shone through. She was happiest tending to her garden, flowers, and beautifully manicured yard. She loved the water and held a lifelong affection for horses. When she was not enjoying the outdoors, she loved trips with her friends. After retiring from teaching, she continued to serve others by working at Privette Law Office for one of her former students, Zane, whom she cherished. Her strong work ethic, attention to detail, and warm presence were deeply appreciated. When grandchildren came into her life, her favorite title quickly became “Grammy” and a role she embraced with boundless love and energy. Family was her top priority; whether it was changing a diaper or painting nails, she looked forward to it and cherished every moment.
Margaret deeply loved her Lord and was a devout Catholic. She began her faith journey in Ferriday, Louisiana, at St. Patrick Catholic Church. She and Stan were married there, and after moving to St. Joseph, LA, they became active members of St. Joseph Catholic Church. After she and Stan moved to Missouri, she became involved in the Catholic communities of St. John Vianney of Mountain View, Sacred Heart of Willow Springs, and St. Mary of West Plains. Her involvement in all three parishes is a testament to her universal love of her faith community. She ensured that her boys knew the Lord and were educated in the way of their faith. She was active as a Lector, Member of the Parish Council, and a big part of every celebration or event that any of the churches hosted. Her unwavering faith, as she faced the challenges of cancer, gave all those around her great strength. She prayed the Rosary often, absolutely believed in the power of prayer and faith and would expect nothing less from us.
Her love for God, family, and friends was unwavering and guided every aspect of her life. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
