During a pivotal era in American society when many women pursued higher education with the primary goal of securing a husband, Dorothy “Dot” Wood defied expectations by shaping a remarkable career and leaving an enduring impact on Hampton Roads. Despite marrying the love of her life, Jim, in 1959, Wood shattered the glass ceiling and blazed a trail for women across multiple fields until her passing on April 13 at the age of 87.
A formidable businesswoman and committed community leader, Wood played an instrumental role in the establishment of key initiatives in Virginia Beach, including the city’s Meals on Wheels program and the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts. Her efforts in fundraising significantly contributed to the construction of the Sandler Center, underscoring her profound influence in the community.
In collaboration with the late congressman Owen Pickett, Wood co-founded the Virginia Beach Meals on Wheels in 1974. Known for her unwavering advocacy, her son Chris fondly recalls her as a champion for the underdog, treating everyone with the same respect and compassion.
Born in Alexandria, Dot Wood studied home economics at Madison College, now James Madison University. In 1965, she and her husband established their family home in Virginia Beach, where she passionately immersed herself in community life. Balancing her roles as a mother and community leader, Wood founded JD&W, a commercial construction company, in 1978, at a time when women rarely led businesses, particularly in male-dominated industries.
Her son Jim, a former Virginia Beach City Council member and vice mayor, recalls the societal challenges she faced, including having to validate her business decisions to bankers through her husband. Yet, Wood’s determination never wavered, driven by her strong-willed and resilient nature.
As one of the first female members of the Virginia Beach Rotary Club, Wood also broke new ground as its first female president. She was instrumental in establishing the Virginia chapter of Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) over 25 years ago, continually mentoring and advocating for women in the industry. Her influence extended to many, including commercial real estate attorney Lisa Murphy and real estate developer Helen Dragas, who regarded Wood as a guiding force and source of inspiration.
Throughout her illustrious career, Wood received numerous accolades, including the prestigious First Citizen of Virginia Beach award in 1999. Her legacy of elevating others was evident when she nominated Dragas for the same award a decade later.
For many, including Dory Wilgus, president and CEO of US Flag and Signal Co., Wood served as a confidante and ally, helping navigate both professional and personal challenges. Virginia Beach Vice Mayor Rosemary Wilson hailed her as a pioneer who carved her own path at a time when women were often limited to traditional roles.
Survived by her two sons, four grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, Wood’s legacy endures through the lives she touched and the community she helped shape. A celebration of her life will be held at the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts in Virginia Beach.