Search by Name

Search by Name

GARLAND WOOD Obituary

WOOD--Garland E. Garland Wood, an innovator in the municipal bonds market, passed away on Monday, November 15, after a long illness. He was 66. Mr. Wood rose through the ranks at Goldman Sachs over two decades to become a renowned leader and innovator in public finance. He is widely recognized as being instrumental in leading the firm's advanced refunding efforts in the late 70s and early 80s. Garland Wood was born on December 29, 1943. He earned a BA from Columbia and remained there to pursue his MBA, graduating in 1972. Following graduation, Mr. Wood joined the Securities Division at Goldman Sachs in the Municipal Bonds Department. Mr. Wood distinguished himself early in his career by creating strategies that allowed the firm's clients to convert standing bonds from high to low interest rates. He also played a significant role in the firm's early work financing single family housing and helped to establish Goldman Sachs' leadership as a top firm in the tax-exempt business. The firm named Mr. Wood a general partner in 1986, making him the first black professional to reach the top tier of leadership at Goldman Sachs and among the first black partners on Wall Street. Mr. Wood retired from Goldman Sachs in 1994 and remained an advisor to the firm for many years. Mr. Wood is survived by his children, Michelle, Cynthia and Scott Wood, all of New York; his mother, Lou Lee Wood of Prairie View, Texas; his brothers, Curtis Wood Jr. of New York City and Craig Wood of Prairie View; and his sisters, Barbara Wood Harrison of Washington DC, Beth Setrakian and Gina Hector, both of San Francisco, California. A memorial service will be held for Mr. Wood early next year.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by New York Times on Nov. 18, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for GARLAND WOOD

Not sure what to say?





John Laxmi

September 13, 2022

Sincere condolences to the Wood family. Garland was, indeed, a pioneer in one of the most esoteric niches of Wall Street. Even today, there are only a dozen professionals who specialize in "advanced refundings" a highly-mathematical financing technique Gar developed. He was a worthy, dignified competitor during my years at a rival firm.

Paris Hairston

October 28, 2020

My name is Paris. I was one of the original Central Park Rollers and lived up the block from him. He had a friend Big Mike as a room mate at the time. A brownstone at 105th west side. Corner house. Quite a character. Lovely man. So sorry to see this so long after but Garland, you did life your way. God Bless.

Quantrell Bingham

June 2, 2018

Pioneer eventhough I didn't know you was one of my financial heroes RIH

April 16, 2013

To the Wood family--Garland was a great person---RIP---Gregory Johnson

Marlys Appleton

July 30, 2012

Dear Family Members, I only learned of Garland's passing and am so sorry for your loss.I knew him in the 1980's as a neighbor and friend in NYC where he had his spectacular brick town home. We also had the bond market and economics in common and he was a leader in fixed income markets. His generousness and intelligence made him great company and his openness and acceptance of all types.
I also remember the daughters as young and beautiful girls.

Monique Georges

July 5, 2012

Dear Wood Family,

Please accept my sincere condolences. I am so saddened to learn of Garland's passing. He was a great mentor and a fantastic dinner companion. No matter how tight his schedule, Garland would make time for a friend. I will always cherish his intelligence, charm, and sophistication. I feel fortunate to have known such a classy gentleman.

Malaika Castro-Johnson

January 31, 2012

To the Wood family - I knew Garland as a young child in the 70's and 80's and a young NYC professional in the 90's. My mother was his Executive Assistant for nearly a decade. Garland was always kind and considerate to me, and I have the fondest of memories of him. I am so sorry for your loss.

September 24, 2011

Dear Woods Family,

It was with deep sadness that I learned of Garland's passing.

I had heard of his being ill earlier. He and many of you were such an important part of my life.

I send you all the warmest of thoughts and my prayers.

Joanne Robinson Hill

Justina Jorrin

July 23, 2011

Dear Wood Family,
I am so sorry to read about Garland's passing. My deepest condolences to you all. He was a kind friend to me.
I met Garland when I was in college working a summer job at Goldman Sachs.Coincidentally,we had a mutual friend who I went to college with. He hired me later when I started my decorative painting company and I created a painted wall treatment in his home. I used to take European friend's of his on tours of NYC. We thought of making a business out of it but my work took off. I moved to northern California 10 years ago and was thinking about him a few days ago and just read he passed away. I am very sad to hear this.
Justina Jorrin Berkeley,CA

Eugene Milford

February 19, 2011

Thank you for your creativity that has touched the lives of so many people!

Clifford Ward

February 2, 2011

I have some great childhood memories of Garland, and I continued to follow his career when he was in college. I worked very closely with Dr. Wood (Garlands Father), and he would keep me informed about the happenings at Columbia College,and the Wood Boys athletic endeavors. I even spent one evening with Garland when he was showing me around NYC. He will be definitely MISSED! May God Blwss his Family in his absence.

Rochelle McDaniel

January 26, 2011

I was saddened to hear the news from Gerrard Hicks about the passing of your dad. My condolences to Scott, Cynthia,Michelle and the family.

John Calvin Williams

December 18, 2010

Dear Mrs. Wood, Curtis, Jr., Barbara, Craig, Beth and Gina. It was with profound sadness that I learned last night of the passing of Garland. My sincerest condolences go out to you all in this time of sorrow. May the Lord God give you His blessings as He surely has welcomed Garland to his bosom.

Growing up together in Prairie View, we were one big family in many ways. As we approach the Christmas holidays, how fond the memories of rushing to your house to share the joys of “what Santa Claus brought each of us.” (Even though, as I remember, it was Garland who first explained who Santa really was!) There are other memories too numerous to recall them all here. But to cite just a few, there were shared trips to Galveston, Boy Scout Camp, basketball games and track meets…etc.

As adults, I started with the Management Training Program of the Chase Manhattan Bank in 1972 at about the same time Garland began his illustrious career with Goldman Sachs. I was proud of his success as I followed his career, and spoke of him often to friends and professional colleagues. One incident comes to mind; I was travelling on my first trip to Kinshasa, Zaire (in 1987) in preparation for my assignment there as the Resident Representative of the International Monetary Fund. On the flight was the late Mickey Leland, and during our conversation we shared our mutual pride that our “Road Buddy” had become the first African American partner at Goldman Sachs.

I could go on and on, suffice it to say, all of our lives are richer for having known Garland…

Dean Dunbar

December 10, 2010

My sincerest condolences to Garland's family. He was a formidable force at Goldman, and his energy was contagious. He served as a mentor and role model to me, and I am forever blessed by the time he spent with me. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

December 2, 2010

Franklin Wesley and David W. Hilliard extend our deepest symphaty to the Garland Woods family. May God strengthen you.

Madison Kilpatrick,

December 2, 2010

I have fond memories of Garland and will miss him. We grew up together and had a lasting friendship. My condolences to all of the Woods family.

Kathryn Reed

December 2, 2010

Mrs.Lou Lee Wood and Children,the Anne Preston Umit Texas Retired Teachers District V1 Membership Prairie View Texas,offer condolences in the Loss of your son Garland E. Wood. We are prayering that God our Father will sustain all of you, and always know that we love you. Tell your grand children Michelle, Cynthia,and Scott to be strong, for they will see their fathe in Heaven.
Kathryn Reed & Irma Kendrick

Robert McMillan

December 1, 2010

Always have fund memories of Garland. his intensity intelligence and wit. My condolences to the family.

December 1, 2010

Michelle, Cynthia and Scott,
My condolences upon your father's passing. Trust in the universe and be kind to each other.
Peace,
Valli Hamilton

Sharri/Symone Roper

November 30, 2010

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Harriet Kelley

November 27, 2010

Curtis,Jr., Barbara, Craig, Beth, Gina and Mrs. Wood, I was vey sorry to learn of the passing of Garland.
Charles and I can remember fondly being your next door neighbors when we lived on campus. Our mother, Lorraine O'Banion taught all of the Wood children. Our father, Dr. E. E. O'Banion was chairman of the Science Department, and a friend of Dr. C. A. Wood.
One event that stands out in my mind was when Prairie View High School won The state championship in Class A Basketball(1st time in the history of the school). The deciding game was actually the semi-final game where we were losing. Garland, in his driving desire to win, completely took over the game and we won by 1 point. Actually winning the final game was easy, but we would have not made it there if it had not been for Garland!

Although our families have not been in contact in years, I was not surprised to read of Garland's great accomplishments.

We all had a wonderful childhood growng up in Prairie View.

Although I do not know his children, I hope this message will warm their hearts.
Please know that you ar in our hearts and prayers.

Harriet O'Banion Kelley
San Antonio, Texas
e-mail: [email protected]

LaSharina Toler

November 24, 2010

My grandmother (Babe), and I share a bittersweet sadness about the passing of her favorite nephew. We are blessed to have shared his life. We extend our warmest regards to his immediate family, and we are certain that the love of the entire "Williams" family will wax bold in this time.

Evelyn Peper

November 24, 2010

Michelle, Cynthia and Scott,I send you my condolences.In 1973 I was Living in your house.and I have many good memories about Mr.Wood.I am very sad that he had passed.Just the other day I was looking in Streetview if the house is still there in N.Y. And then I saw the sad news...It was as if somebody had send me the message over here to Germany.....Is Molly Wood still with us? Warm thoughts from Evelyn Peper Hamburg Germany

sheila johnson

November 23, 2010

to the entire wood family,love and blessings.garlandwas agreat friend and will be remembered fondly.sheila g. johnson

Phyllis Hollis

November 23, 2010

I am deeply saddened to hear of Garlands death. I met Garland in 1980 and was continually intrigued by his character,intellect and brilliance. He was my inspiration to change careers and join Salomon Brothers. Seldom in life do we have the fortune to meet the 'Garland E.Woods' of the world.

Allen Brown

November 23, 2010

My Prayers & Blessings go out to the Wood family. Garland was a pioneer on Wall Street and in Life. He was a mentor, a friend and a humanitarian. I have fond memories of his enduring passion for life & love. His spirit will always be with us.

Donna Clayburn

November 22, 2010

Michelle, Cynthia and Scott, please accept my condolences. I have many fond memories of Garland. He was brilliant, generous and fun! He made a difference in my life and many others. God bless you.

Donna Prince

November 22, 2010

My condolences to Garland's family. He has left you far too early. Having worked - I would say "with" him, he always said "for" him - at Goldman, I knew him to be a good man, who worked exceedingly hard, creative in moving toward his goals, demanding of himself and others to be the best. I lift you in prayer.

Phiilip A. Robinson

November 21, 2010

To the Wood family. Please accept my condolences on the passing of your father Garland. I will never forget him. He also inspired me to do the best and be the best at what I do. Your loss is not just yours alone.

Philip A. Robinson NYC by way of Queens.

November 20, 2010

Our sincerest condolenses to Garland's family. He was a wonderful neighbor, full of life and was always ready to help. Mama Lou-Lee your in my prayers today. God Bless you all

Jill & Tony Marini (St.Thomas, VI)

Sean Boyea and Family

November 19, 2010

We extend our prayerful support to Garland's family. I had the honor of serving as one of Garland's proteges. His inspirational spirit of excellence and compassion is an enduring legacy. May God continue to comfort you all in this difficult time.

Don and Saundra Cornwell

November 18, 2010

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Susie & Briana Hazzi

November 18, 2010

Briana and I extend our prayers and condolenses to the family. Bri had many fond memories of her Uncle Garland. We treasure the time we were able to spend with him. God Bless

Susana & Briana Hazzi

November 18, 2010

We will treasure all our beautiful memories. Briana remembers special days with Uncle Garland. He was taken too early from those that loved him. My condolences to the whole family.

November 18, 2010

My sincerest condolences to the family of Garland E. Wood. He was an accomplished and humorous man. Hold his spirit in your hearts. I'm sure that he will visit you there - again. May God comfort and keep you during this difficult time.
Twanda McAlister (Stamford,CT)

Charles Hernandez

November 18, 2010

I will always treasure the time I spent with Garland. He will be missed. My condolences and prayers to the family.

November 18, 2010

We have been Garland's neighbors on Manhattan Avenue for 34 years. We have fond memories of crossing paths with him while running in the park and sharing the occasional sidewalk conversation about neighborhood news, business and politics. He has been missed as a presence on the block for several years now. Our sincere condolences to his family and friends. The Kellners

Crystal Williams-Jackson

November 18, 2010

Words cannot express the sadness I feel in my heart at the loss of Cousin Garland. Please know that we are keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers and understand how losing a loved one feels. If there is anything we can do, please do not hesitate to ask. We love you and we (your family) are here ..... as you were for us.

Bruce & Connie Hubbard

November 18, 2010

Our deepest condolences and sympathy to the entire Wood extended family on the passing of Garland E. Wood.

Mimi & Ron McWold

November 18, 2010

Please know that you are in our hearts and in our prayers.

Showing 1 - 41 of 41 results

Make a Donation
in GARLAND WOOD's name

Memorial Events
for GARLAND WOOD

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support GARLAND's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor GARLAND WOOD's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more