Doris Lee Wood

Doris Lee Wood was born March 27, 1928 in Stamps Arkansas to Rubin Ito Hayes and Minnie Lee Wyatt. In 1937, along with her parents and siblings Alvin, Glorice, Valcine and Ruby moved to Little Rock, Arkansas where she attended Union AME Church. Doris graduated from Dumbar High School in 1947. Later, she performed with Union AME church choir across the United States.

Doris attended USC school of nursing where she became a pediatric nurse. While working at County USC, she met Deputy Herbert L. Wood where they bonded over cafeteria food. On July 13th, 1956 Herbert and Doris married in Los Angeles, California. Out of this union there are four children Larry (deceased), Steven, Darryl (deceased), and Kimberly.

After living in Compton, California, Doris and Herbert moved to Santa Ana, California in 1966. While working at his liquor store, Herb heard of this place called “Head Start” hiring nurses. At this time Herb filled out an application for Doris (she never knew until they called for an interview) and the Head Start journey began and continued for over 50 years.

Doris loved to shop, watch Judge Judy, Cops and going to lunch with her “Headstart Nurses”. Her favorite was to advocate for the underserved by holding health fairs and clinics.

Doris touched many with her kindness, quick-witted humor, fierce determination and generous spirit. Her Husband Herbert preceded her in death. She is survived by her daughter Kimberly, Steve, Darryl(deceased) Larry (deceased). Grandchildren Kellin, Daniel, Darryl, Justin, Jordan, Brandon, Tosha, Lar Carol and Tehya. Nine great-grandchildren Daughter -in -laws Cathy and Carolyn and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A funeral will be held on September 14th, 2022 at 12 noon at Fairhaven Memorial Park: 1702 Fairhaven Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92705.