Berneta Y Wood, 78 years, of Fort Madison, Iowa died Friday, February 23, 2024 at the  University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa.  She was born January 5, 1946 in Keokuk, Iowa, a daughter of William P and Edna Olive (Zumwalt) Ryland.  She was raised by her aunt, Martha Noe.

On February 29, 1971 she married Charles "Chuck" E. Wood. He preceded her in death February 2, 2023.  They first lived in Keokuk, Iowa. The family moved to Hamilton, Illinois where they had a CB radio shop in their home, and did sales and repairs.  They spent many years living in Niota, Illinois before moving to a small farm near Basco, Illinois, and later made Fort Madison, Iowa their retirement home.  She was a retired nurse aid.  Berneta enjoyed crafts, painting, sewing, embroidery, and cross stitch.  Over the years she made many hats, scarves, and Christmas decorations.  She took her kids fishing at the Warsaw Bottoms. She was close to nature, feeding the birds and squirrels.  She enjoyed gardening with Chuck.  They had a vegetable garden, as well as many flowers, especially lilacs and iris.  She smiled whenever she was given flowers.

When Berneta and Chuck were younger, they enjoyed riding their Harley. Later in life they took many evening car rides in the county and enjoyed eating out.  She enjoyed holidays with family and gatherings at the River View in Dallas City, Illinois.  Even though her health was difficult at times, she rarely complained.  She was proud of her children, and did her best to provide for all.

Berneta is survived by her four children: Timothy (Martha) Milligan of Montrose, Iowa; Charlie (Teresa) Milligan of St. Francisville; Tammy (Edward) Schroeder of Fort Madison; and Russell Wood of Fort Madison; eight grandchildren: Debra, Timothy, Steven, Jessica, Joshua, Anna, Edward, and Ruby; eight great grandchildren; five siblings: Billy Joe (Carol) Ryland of Keokuk; Rebecca Borgen of South Dakota; Sally Ann Ryland of California; Sharon Page of Missouri; and Janice Ryland of Tennessee; her best friend, Geraldine Regan; her friend and care giver Amy Swisher; her dentist Dr. Brown; her cat, Ernie and her dog, Sweets.

No public service is being held.  Barr Memorial Chapel is honored to serve the family of Berneta Wood and an online guest book may be found at www.barrmemorialchapel.com.