New Zealand author Rocky Wood (b.1959) died on December 1. Wood was one of the world’s foremost experts on the writings of Stephen King, publishing at least five volumes on King’s works and collecting, beginning with the 6000 page The Complete Guide to the Works of Stephen King. Wood also worked as a researcher for King on King’s novel Doctor Sleep. During his researches into King’s writing, Wood discovered several lost and unknown stories by King which have since seen print. In 2010, Wood was elected president of the Horror Writers Association and was re-elected to a second term in 2012. He was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) in 2010 and died of complications from the disease. Wood was born in Weelington, New Zealand and died in Melbourne, Australia.

From SFWA President, Steven Gould: “Though I never met him in person, Rocky reached out several times on behalf of HWA to cooperate with SFWA on issues effecting genre writers. I’m deeply saddened at his loss.”

SFWA extends its condolences to the members of HWA and Wood’s family and friends.