Thomas L. Woods

September 19, 1951 - February 2, 2021

Just two months after relocating from Michigan to Florida to support and enjoy his newest grandchild, Thomas Woods, 69, steadfast husband and father of two, passed away from a heart attack in his new home in the arms of his wife, Rhoda. Tom was born in Huntington, West Virginia, September 19, 1951. He was pre-deceased by his mother, Marjorie Ann Taylor Kemp and his father Harley Lee Woods. Any cause Tom engaged in he was fully devoted, whether it be work or play. For his entire working life, he excelled in his career in computers with Eaton Corporation, and he served his church, the First Presbyterian Church of Marshall, as a sound technician, treasurer, and handbell choir player. Tom met Rhoda in 1969 on their college rifle range and quickly decided this sharpshooter should be his partner for life. Together they relocated from Saginaw to Marshall and raised two children, Brian (Sharon) and Janine. Tom loved to travel and, for many years, co-owned and piloted a Cessna 182, creating for his family fond memories of journeys to Kentucky and Florida to visit relatives. With a twinkle in his eye, he’d happily tell you of only having to “crash” land the plane twice. He enjoyed many hobbies over the years, ranging from square dancing to photography, and shared many of these passions with his children. He had a special love for spicy sauces, science fiction, Apple stores, and Broadway musicals. In retirement, the passion Tom developed as an exchange student to Sweden through Youth For Understanding was sparked anew. He and Rhoda lovingly hosted 21 wonderful students over 10 years, recently visiting many of them (plus Tom's original host family) in their homelands of China, Japan, Thailand and Sweden. In addition to his wife and children, Tom is survived by his stepmother, Juanita; brother, Gerry; myriad nieces and nephews; and his favorite new relatives: his grandsons, Joshua and Jason. During the cremation, Tom’s immediate family gathered at home to celebrate his life, share memories, and sing along to some of his favorite songs. Tom was a quietly generous man; In lieu of flowers and to honor his memory, the family asks you to consider supporting one of Tom’s three beloved causes: The First Presbyterian Church of Marshall, Youth For Understanding, and the Educational Fund for Tom's Grandson, Jason Woods. Donation Link: https://form.jotform.com/blwoods01/thomas-l-woods-memorial-donation