The stories of our lives are written moment by moment – in how we’ve loved each other and in the many ways we’ve touched each other’s hearts. Judy Woods touched many hearts and lives in her 78 earthly years.
Judy was born January 13, 1947 on the Howell family farm near Royal Oak, in Alton, Missouri, to Wayne “Ted” Howell and Mildred Howell. She entered her eternal rest in Heaven at “Suppertime”- 6 PM surrounded by her family at home on Wednesday June 4th, 2025. The song “Suppertime” was a song she had preselected for her memorial service.
Don Woods married Judy on August 3, 1963 and he knew that she was the “CATCH” of his life. They had two children, Debbie and Scotty and ran a family Canoe Rental and Guide Service on the Eleven Point River for decades – starting in 1965.
Judy enjoyed fishing, hunting turkey and deer with her husband – especially after Don lost his hunting and fishing companion, their son Scotty, at age 17. Judy was truly Don’s soulmate. She was by his side sharing hopes and hardships for almost 62 years. Their prayers for the small blessings of each day always included many that have touched their lives and hearts.
Lifelong friendships were formed from canoeists that came to float the river, and many have shared that their lives were changed because of Judy and Don and their witness for Christ.
Her biggest decision of her life was asking Jesus into her heart as a young girl at Pennwood Church. She was baptized at Thomasville by J.I. Willard. Judy’s Christian character was what most people recall about her. The kindness and compassion she displayed were fruits of the Holy Spirit living in her. The Bible in Galatians 5 tells us the fruits of the spirit are: love, joy peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
And that smile – that smile was her way of making others feel right at home and always loved. She truly was a beautiful soul … and she has left a trail of treasured memories.
A quote that Judy had on her 50th wedding anniversary picture was: “You comprehend that only two things really matter during life on earth. Your relationship with God, and how well you demonstrate that love to others.”
Judy is survived by her husband, Don, daughter Debbie and husband David Langston, her sister Joan Simmons and brother Eddie Howell…along with a host of many beloved family members and friends.
Judy is preceded in death by her son, Scott Woods, her parents, Wayne “Ted” and Mildred Howell, her in laws Herbert and Jessie Woods, and one brother, Ronnie Howell.
A graveside only service, open to the public, will be held Saturday June 7, 2025 at 2:00 PM at the Many Springs Baptist Church Cemetery. Chairs will be provided for guests that are unable to stand.
In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the Gideon Bible Society or Many Springs Baptist Church Cemetery Fund.
