Elaine Marie Woods, a resident of Willow Springs, MO, passed away on Sunday, February 22, 2026, while at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, MO, due to natural causes. Born January 13, 1948, in Abilene, TX, to Clifford U. and Christina C. (Walter) Woods; she was 78 Years old.
Elaine attended high school and graduated from Central Catholic High School in Abilene, TX. She then attended McMurry College also in Abilene, and Creighton University in Omaha, NE. In May of 1979, she obtained her Ph.D. in Philosophy at Loyola University in Paris, France. During this time, Elaine also proudly served her country as a LPN in the United States Army from 1969 to 1990 obtaining the rank of Sergeant First Class. Elaine had many enjoyments in her life. She loved to cross stitch, read mystery and horror books, watch birds, and sit on her porch and watch and talk to people as they passed by. However, one of her favorite pastimes was working in her flower and vegetable gardens. She was a devoted Christian and was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Elaine was preceded in death by her parents, Clifford and Christina, and brothers, Michael and Francis Woods.
She is survived by her sister, Cecilia Sprague; her brother, Clifford Woods; her sister, Earlene Bloomfield; her sister, Martha Whetsel; her brother, Harold Woods; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Graveside services for Elaine will be held Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Howell Memorial Park Cemetery in Pomona, MO with Father Simon Enudu officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Willow Funeral Home, LLC. Online condolences may be left at www.willowspringsfuneralhome.com
