W. David Wood, teacher of disabled in South Jersey

W. David Wood, 83, of Gloucester City, a former teacher and administrator at schools for disabled children in South Jersey, died of a brain tumor Tuesday, Sept. 9, at Wissahickon Hospice in Bala Cynwyd.

Born in Ilford, on the northeast outskirts of London, Mr. Wood immigrated to the United States in his early 20s and became a citizen in the year he turned 50.

He earned a bachelor's at Antioch College and in 1983 earned a master's in education at what is now Rowan University.

"He was always interested in special education, education for the disabled," son Derek said.

Mr. Wood left Britain, his son said, because "he liked the U.S. approach to such education."

Mr. Wood, his son said, "most significantly worked for the State of New Jersey as a teacher in schools for the disabled in Camden County" in the 1970s and 1980s.

"Eventually, he became a director of a number of schools, all in Southern New Jersey, in the '80s and '90s," his son said.

Especially after retiring in 1996, Mr. Wood "was very active in his church, donating his time to various charitable causes" at St. Maurice in Gloucester City.

Besides his son, Mr. Wood is survived by son Daryl, daughter Amanda Ihlenfeld, two brothers, a sister, two grandchildren, and his former wife, Joyce.

A viewing was set from 8:30 to 9:45 a.m. Friday, Sept. 12, at Annunciation BVM Church, 601 W. Browning Rd. Bellmawr, before a 10 a.m. Funeral Mass there.

A reception was set from noon to 7 p.m. that day at 31 Derwen Rd., Bala Cynwyd.

Donations may be sent to Wissahickon Hospice, Suite 300, 150 Monument Rd., Bala Cynwyd, Pa. 19004.

Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccannhealey.com.