Evelyn Wood was born in Hornellsville on December 7, 1931, to Earl and Mabelle Jones. She grew up on her family’s farm in Cameron, NY, where she developed a deep love for all animals.
In 1959, she married Harold Wood. Together, they bought and operated the Jones family farm until selling it in 1981. Afterward, they moved to North Hornell, NY. Harold and Evelyn enjoyed 33 years of marriage until his passing in 1992.
In 1987, Evelyn responded to an ad in the paper; her neighbors, the Burch family, were looking for a nanny to help care for their newborn. That year, she began caring for Jeff Burch. Evelyn continued that care when Britni Burch was born in 1991. She soon became a lifelong member of the family and would later be known to many as “Nanny”.
While living in Hornell, Evelyn found joy in motorcycle rides with her good friend Doris—riding until she was 75—walking her little dog Emmie in a dog stroller, and spending time with friends and family. She was a dedicated member of the First Baptist Church of Hornell until she relocated to Hampstead, NC, in 2019, where Jeffrey Burch and his family had moved.
In February 2022, she moved to Arbor Landing in Hampstead, NC, where she enjoyed her own apartment, made many new friends, and helped manage the weekly Bingo games. Nanny also cherished her friends at Bible study and looked forward to their weekly outings. She was known for always cheering everyone up!
Nanny loved spending time with Britni, Andrea, Jeff, and Lindsay Burch, as well as their four daughters: Kinlee, Madison, Emerly, and Harper. She also treasured her friendship with her good friend, Julie. Evelyn took immense pride in her family and often bragged about their accomplishments.
Nanny will be missed but loved forever. At her request, there will be no services. However, in honor of her love for animals, contributions can be made in her name to the Hornell Humane Society, located at 7649 Industrial Park Rd, Hornell, NY 14843.
Arrangements are in the care of Coastal Cremations, 6 Jacksonville Street, Wilmington, NC 28403.
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