Marlene Ayscue Wood

Marlene Ayscue Wood, 94, of Petersburg, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 23, 2026, at Dunlop House, surrounded by her family.

Born on July 6, 1931, in Petersburg, Virginia, Marlene was the daughter of the late Charles Henry Ayscue and Myrtle Sadie Green Ayscue. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Oscar Jefferson Wood, Jr.; her children, Pamela Zone and Oscar Jefferson Wood III; and her siblings, Carl Douglas Ayscue, Robert Curtis Ayscue, and Barbara Ayscue Porach.

Marlene lived a life defined by service, intelligence, and deep commitment to her community. She worked for many years as a supervisory telephone operator with C&P Telephone, where she also served as a Union Representative. She later worked as a switchboard operator at Petersburg General Hospital and enjoyed seasonal employment at JCPenney during the holidays - a role she took special delight in each year.

She was perhaps most widely known for her eleven years of dedicated service on the Petersburg School Board. A passionate advocate for education, Marlene believed strongly in encouraging others to be the very best they could be. Her steady leadership and thoughtful voice left a meaningful impact on students and families throughout the community.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Marlene was deeply involved in civic and social life. She served as a Girl Scout leader; volunteered for local, state, and national election campaigns; modeled for numerous department stores; was an active member of the Colonial Heights Republican Committee; and was active with the Elks Club Auxiliary. She was a proud member of the Dancing Grannies and a longtime member of The Heights Baptist Church. An avid reader, she likely read nearly every book housed at the Colonial Heights Public Library. She enjoyed spending time outdoors in the sunshine, cherished babies, and valued time spent with her many friends.

Marlene will be remembered for her vibrant personality and gracious presence. She was exceptionally social and friendly, always impeccably dressed, and remarkably intelligent and well-read. She had a natural way of engaging others in conversation and a gift for making people feel both welcomed and encouraged.

She is survived by her children, Tracy Lynn Wood, Betsy Blake Wood, and Tina Wood West and her husband, Ronald A. West; nine grandchildren and respective spouses; ten great-grandchildren; and a sister-in-law, Margie Wood, all of whom were a tremendous source of pride and joy in her life.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Blandford Cemetery.

The family extends heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Dunlop House for the loving care and compassion shown to Marlene, as well as to Legacy Hospice and Amedisys Hospice for their dedicated support.

Marlene's life was one of dignity, service, and unwavering encouragement to others. She leaves behind a legacy of intelligence, community involvement, and deep love for family and friends. She will be greatly missed.