Gloria Cote Wood

Born on Sunday, March 31st 1940 in Laconia, NH, the daughter of Adelard and Cleophee Cote, she was a proud graduate of Laconia High School, Class of 1958, going on to earn her degree from Notre Dame College in 1962. Her first teaching job was at Henniker High School and she taught both English and French.

Gloria was known for being ahead of her time, auto racing (and beating the boys!) at the airport with her dads car, being active with her many friends, and academically succeeding in all her endeavors and various careers. Her New Years Day parties were legendary and well attended, with well designed, clever invitations, and, of course, either one of two St. Bernards, Barnabus and Gunther greeting the group, with at least 100 people crammed into the Larch St. Pinardville residence.

Gloria was always known for her generous heart, sharp mind, and and deep love for animals, especially dogs. She was always happy to lend a hand to friends and neighbors in need of a dog sitter.

Dedicating herself to service, she led the Bartlett Elementary Mothers Club, volunteered at the Elliot Hospital in Manchester, NH, and served as a New Hampshire Granite State Ambassador, where she held many Board appointments. She also actively dedicated her time for GED education, obtaining a high pass rate and perhaps more importantly, establishing lifelong relationships with many of students.

Professionally, she showed her adaptability by being involved in teaching English, working as an AT&T commercial representative, and later served as a New Hampshire Health and Human Services as a Social Security Disability Hearing Officer, as well as working at St. Anselm’s College library for many years.

Gloria is survived by her daughter, Jodi Wood; her son Jay Wood; her grandchildren, Meg, Ben, Jon, Jake, and Jared, and one great-grandchild, Caleigh.

She is predeceased by her brothers, Robert, Richard, and her sister Claire.

All are welcome to join the family at her graveside service; held at the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Laconia, NH, on Tuesday, August 26th, at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Alzheimer's Association, NH Animal League, or the NH Granite State Ambassadors in Gloria’s honor.