Duke S. Wood

Duke S. Wood, age 100, of Billings, passed away Wednesday morning, November 22, 2006, at St. John’s Lutheran Home. Duke was born April 4, 1906, in Livingston, the daughter of Josie Bell Duke Swindlehust and Joseph Edward Swindlehurst. Duke attended Park County High School, the University of Montana, and Mills College. After college, she returned to Livingston, where she taught Latin, French, and Spanish at Park County High School.

Duke married William L. Wood in Livingston on December 25, 1933. During his career with Northern Pacific Railroad, they lived in several cities along the rail line from Seattle to Duluth. Upon Mr. Wood’s retirement, they moved to Billings.

Mr. Wood passed away in 1976.

Duke was an active member of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church and enjoyed golf and bridge with her friends at Hilands Club, where she was a member for many years. She was also a member of PEO and the Petroleum Club.

Duke was preceded in death by her husband; her sister, Katharine (Mrs. Carson) Bechtel; and her brother Joseph E. Swindlehurst, Jr. She is survived by her nieces and nephew, Beverly D. Harris, Jean Sandberg, and Jospeh T. Swindlehurst, all of Livingston. And by grand and great-grand nephews and nieces.

Duke was a lady of remarkable strength and grace, who was a delight and inspiration to her many family and friends.

Memorials may be made in Duke’s name to St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church or St. John’s Lutheran Home.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, November 28, 2006, at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Billings. Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary is assisting the family with arrangements.