Remembering Deana K Blackwood

It is with great sadness and love that we announce the passing of Deana K Blackwood, who departed this world on October 31, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. Deana was a beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother and sister, whose warmth, kindness, and generosity touched the lives of everyone blessed to know her.

A Life Well Lived

Born on March 01, 1941, in Wichita, Kansas, Deana lived a life marked by a zest for new adventures, a curiosity toward other cultures and customs, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. Throughout the years, Deana embraced every moment with an open heart. She spent the last eight years of her life living abroad in Spain, immersing herself in the culture of Barcelona and thoroughly enjoying being a "Mediterranean Mama" (as she liked to call herself)! Prior to her retirement in 2014, she was Executive Assistant to the Executive Director of the National Conference of State Legislatures. During her 30+ years with NCSL, Deana cultivated friendships all over the United States and the world. Her children often remarked that Deana "never knew a stranger". Her childhood years were spent growing up on a farm in Coyville, Kansas, graduating from Coyville High School and attending Business college in Wichita. She would later own a Quarter Horse ranch with her husband, Richard Blackwood, in Castle Rock, Colorado. She even branched out into raising Ostriches for a time. One could say Deana was a true Renaissance Woman.

Legacy of Love

Deana will be remembered most for her loving spirit and passion for life. Whether through countless acts of kindness, heartfelt conversations over coffee, or the simple joy of sharing time together, Deana made an indelible mark on all who knew her. Her legacy will forever inspire those left behind to live with the same enthusiasm and grace.

Family and Friends

Deana is survived by her daughter, Shannon Moudy (and husband David), her son, Michael Cory Blackwood (and wife Jenny), grandchildren Taylor Moudy (and fiancée Aubrey), Michael Moudy (and wife Megan), Beau Bailey (and husband Chad), Ryan Blackwood (and fiancée Cassandra), Matthew Blackwood and Joshua Blackwood. Deana also has 6 great grandsons: Hudson, Carson and Reilly, and Ace, Jace and Keith. She will be greatly missed by her cherished friend Santiago, and many other dear friends. She was a loving big sister to Marci (McLeran), Mavis (Biastoch) and Thomas (Wise), and was a proud member of the  Cherokee Nation. Each person carries with them lasting memories and the enduring love that Deana shared. She was preceded in death by her husband Richard, her father and mother, and her great grandson Ace.

A Lasting Tribute

A memorial service will be held in the spring, where we will gather to celebrate our mom's remarkable life and the joy she brought to so many. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a favorite charity or planting a tree, in honor of Deana.

Though Deana is no longer physically with us, her spirit lives on in the lives of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. We will miss her deeply but find comfort in knowing that her love will remain with us always. Her memory will be a blessing.