Obituary
We Begin at Death and Resurrect Her Through Her Writings
This is the journal of Dr. Charlene Wood (1962-1994). Dr. Wood was a pioneering STEM scientist in the early 90s.
Her obituary from the New York Times:
The New York Times
Obituary – February 2, 1994
Dr. Charlene “Charlie” Wood, 31, Scientist and AI Researcher
Dr. Charlene “Charlie” Wood, a pioneering scientist in biomedical engineering and artificial intelligence, passed away on January 31, 1994, in New York City. She was 31 years old.
Born on December 3, 1962, in Houston, Texas, Dr. Wood was the daughter of Theodore Wood, a NASA scientist, and Josephine Wood. Her father’s passing when she was just 11 years old profoundly shaped her intellectual pursuits and deep curiosity about science and technology. Her mother, Josephine, resides in a care facility.
Dr. Wood earned her PhD in biomedical engineering and computer science from New York University, where her groundbreaking research in neural networks, artificial intelligence, and human-computer interaction positioned her as one of the most promising minds in her field. Her work directly contributed to Turner Inc.’s rise as a leader in the internet and home computing industry, laying the groundwork for advancements in digital networks, machine learning, and interactive computing systems.
Despite her academic achievements, Dr. Wood was known for her introspective nature and deep appreciation for art, literature, and fashion. She worked at Harving, Fine Clothing and Goods, a luxury boutique in Manhattan, where she found solace in the craftsmanship of design and beauty.
Colleagues and friends remember her as an intensely private but deeply curious individual, driven by a belief that technology could bridge the gap between isolation and connection. Her contributions to artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure continue to influence the industry she helped shape.
She is survived by her mother, Josephine Wood, as well as colleagues, mentors, and members of Turner Inc., who mourn the loss of a brilliant innovator gone too soon.
A private memorial service will be held in her honor.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Turner Inc. Future Innovators Fund, supporting young scientists and engineers in honor of Dr. Charlene Wood’s legacy.
Natalie Sierra (she/they) is the Poet Laureate of Pomona, an author, editor, and President of Cafe Con Libros Press, a literary nonprofit in Southern California. Her work has been featured in dozens of publications, including the Los Angeles Times. Subscribe to her newsletter so as not to miss out on any new stories. You can also follow her on Instagram.