Patricia Wood Obituary

Patricia B. Wood devoted her life to both exceptional professional accomplishment and deeply rooted love for her family. While her distinguished career spanned education, government service, and public advocacy, it was her roles as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother that brought her the greatest joy. Patricia was the ever-supportive mother and role model to her daughter Pam and son Randy. She cherished her six grandsons-each believing he was her favorite-and took extra delight in her ten great-grandchildren, who held a truly special place in her heart. Patricia described her life's philosophy at her 50th high school reunion: "Grasping every opportunity for service as it comes, paves a sure way to success." She balanced dedication with levity, sharing, "I play as hard as I work. My passion is ballroom dancing and Argentine Tango." Her academic journey began as Valedictorian of her high school, followed by graduation from Spartanburg Junior College in 1955 and Converse College in 1958. A National Woodrow Wilson Scholar, Patricia furthered her studies at the University of South Carolina. Among her many honors, Patricia was a Leadership Atlanta alumna, recipient of numerous awards for academic achievement, leadership, and service across school, work, and voluntary organizations. She was an inspiring presenter, leading speeches and workshops with trademark enthusiasm and resourcefulness. Her spirit of service and unwavering positivity touched countless lives. Those who worked alongside her described Patricia as a boss who truly collaborated and uplifted her team. She authored two books on federal government careers and advancement, extending her dedication to mentoring others. Professionally, Patricia served as a high school teacher for nine years, then advanced as Public Information Director for Economic Opportunity Atlanta for seven years. Her career included pivotal roles with Health & Human Services, as a speech writer and Special Assistant for Children, Youth and Families, and as a Public Information Specialist for the Administration for Native Americans. Patricia contributed to several national initiatives, including the 1983 National Adoption and 1984 National Child Abuse Prevention projects, development of a federal communications network, and government efficiency efforts in the 1990s. She played an influential role in the Reagan Administration, shaping Indian policy and recommendations to the Presidential Advisory Commission on Indian Reservation Economics, and in the Clinton Administration, as part of Al Gore's Federal Quality Initiative, furthering government efficiency. She served as Senior Advisor to Firstgov.gov, US General Service Administration. Patricia concluded her career at the Social Security Administration, in the Office of Employment Support Programs, Strategic Partnerships and Outreach. Throughout her life, Patricia exemplified initiative, creativity, leadership, and steadfast commitment to service and kindness. She set enduring examples of how to treat people and care for the environment, always radiating a positive attitude. Her legacy continues in the many people whose lives she touched, inspired, and elevated. Surviving are a daughter, Pamela Mason and her husband, Scot Swanson of Timonium, Maryland; a son, Anthony R. Mason and his wife, Penny of Landrum; six grandchildren, Nathan Mason, Eric Swanson and his wife, Rachael, Rodger Mason, Kyle Swanson and his wife, Sarah, Chase Mason and his wife, Jamie, and Stephen Swanson and his wife, Leslie; and ten great-grandchildren. Graveside services will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Hillcrest Memory Gardens conducted by Dr. Keith Kelly. Visitation will be held after the service at the cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to The Alzheimer's Association, 123 W. Antrim Drive Greenville, SC 29607. Online condolences may be made at www.thewoodmortuary.com.