Vara Lee Matthews Wood, age 88, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2025, at her home in Smithfield. Born September 17, 1936, in Johnston County, she was the daughter of the late Oris E. Matthews and Gracie Peed Matthews. In addition to her parents, Vara was preceded in death by her niece, Tonia Marie Puckett.

Vara graduated from Smithfield High School and Campbell College. She worked in bookkeeping in Smithfield and San Diego, California for ten years before becoming a stay-at-home Mom. Vara loved needlework and made many quilts. She also loved landscaping and spent many hours designing and maintaining the many yards her and Dyrl had over the years.

Visitation will take place Friday, March 21, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00pm at Parrish Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 11:00am at Johnston Union FWB Church.

Vara is survived by her husband of 69 years, Dyrl Wood; son, Scott Wood (Suzanne); three grandchildren, Emily Wood, Eliza Wood, and Alex Wood; brother, Oris Matthews Jr. (Miggie); and sisters, Retha Puckett (Harold) and Gracelyn Hobbs (Mark).