Denise Michele (Thornton) Wood, 48, of Virginia,  formerly of West Deer and Tarentum areas, passed away, February 27, 2021, at Portsmouth Naval Medical Center, Virginia.

She was born October 20,1972 in Natrona Heights, beloved daughter of Donna M. (Fosnaught) Thornton, of Norfolk, Va. and the late Edward J. Thornton.

Denise Grew up attending Deer Lakes Community Church of the Nazarene, Curtisville, West Deer Township. She graduated from Highlands High School, Natrona Heights, in 1991. Denise moved to Virginia Beach, Va. 24 years ago when she married her husband, Russell T. Wood.  She dearly loved being a mother to her 2 daughters, Roxanna Mae Wood and Emma Jamie Wood, both at home. She is also survived by her beloved sister, Roxanna (Annie) Thornton, of Norfolk, Va; maternal grandfather, Joseph M. Fosnaught Sr. and many aunts, uncles and cousins who she enjoyed visiting with. She is fondly remembered for her soft spoken nature, gentle temperament, and possessing a kind and caring soul. She never uttered a harsh word or displayed an angry temper. She was a welcoming and exceptional listener who listened closely and intently to whomever she was speaking. Her compassion was without equal and she sacrificed deeply in behalf of family, friends, and anyone in need.

Denise is preceded in death by her father and newborn daughter, Rachel Michele Wood; her Paternal grandparents, Rev. Edward and Pearl Thornton; maternal grandmother, Bertha S. Fosnaught.

A Memorial Service will be held 1 pm, Saturday, June 26,2021, at Deer Lakes Community Church of the Nazarene. Donations in Denise's memory may be sent to the church.