John Francis Woods

Bluffton, SC—John Francis Woods, 85, passed away peacefully at home on November 11th, 2020 with his wife, son and daughter surrounding him. He was born in Brooklyn, NY on July 9, 1935.

John served with the Army Quartermasters in Virginia from 1958 to 1960, where he earned the distinction of Soldier of the Month. He then earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts at Towson State University.

Before serving in the military, John married the love of his life, Margot Ryan, on July 5th, 1958. They met as teens in Tanji’s malt shop in Brooklyn. John worked behind the counter, and always made sure Margot had extra ice cream in her sodas. They recently celebrated 62 years of marriage. Their marriage was one of deep love, shared joys and sorrows, strong faith and eternal optimism. Their most prized treasures were always their children and grandchildren.

During a thirty-five year career in the telecommunications industry, John served as a mechanical engineer with Western Electric, and later as an environmental engineer with AT&T.

To paraphrase Mark Twain, John would say that he never met a problem he couldn’t solve.

John was a lifelong lover of opera, history, current world events, travel and good novels. His life was marked by a quiet dignity and a kindness to all. His love for family and friends ran deep; he was still in contact with his teenage friends.

In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by his son, John Francis Woods, III,  and four brothers. Surviving, in addition to his wife Margot (Ryan) Woods, are his son Paul Jeffrey Woods and daughter Margot Anne Kenzie, beloved grandchildren Dan, Heather, Paul and Hannah Kenzie and Jennifer Woods. Also surviving is his dear sister Maureen Woods Ryan.

A special Mass of remembrance was celebrated for John by family friend, Fr. Thomas Ulshafer,  on Sunday, November 15.

Because of the Covid pandemic, a Mass of Resurrection and celebration of John’s life will be held in 2021, when it is safe to invite all who knew this special man to join the family. Meanwhile, in lieu of flowers, those who wish to may make donations in his memory to the St. Vincent DePaul Society or a charity of their choice.

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