Lena Woods

Lena Woods was born on October 28, 1937, in Greenville, Mississippi to Leola Robinson and George Watson. She was the youngest of seven siblings and graduated from Coleman High School in 1956. While in school she joined the New Homemakers of America (NHA) Club and Drama Club. Lena's ambition was to become a nurse and she fulfilled that dream for more than 30 years. She was passionate about the healthcare field and always referred to her reliable family medical guide. Whenever she needed to find out more about what was ailing herself, a loved one, or a friend she researched her trusted "blue" book.

Lena moved to Los Angeles, California where she met and married David Woods from Beaumont, Texas in 1959. Through their union they had four children. A family woman, Lena devoted her life to raising her children. She truly enjoyed family gatherings that brought her loved ones together. Like any devoted mother she loved all of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren unconditionally. She demanded that her children love each other the same way and to always be united in loving one another. She inspired her children to work hard to accomplish their goals in life because you only get one shot at it.

During her leisure time Lena loved watching television soap operas ("her stories") and a good old horror or sci-fi movie; from giant ants invading the world to walking zombies, Lena has seen them all. When you dropped in on Lena to find her watching one of her programs and before you realized it you had spent two hours watching a sci-fi movie that you never would have watched. She also loved "Vegas" trips, reading, shopping, and bingo just to name a few.

A strong woman of faith and the heart of her family - Lena was a strong woman and throughout her life she quietly maintained a kind, simple, and independent demeanor. But, you best believe that when necessary she was very vocal for clearly getting her point across.

On March 24, 2013, the Lord saw Lena getting tired when a cure was not to be so He put his arms around her and whispered, "Come with me." Tearfully with her family by her side and though she was loved dearly, they could not make her stay. Lena said, "I'm ready to go," and they watched as Lena slowly faded away.

Lena leaves cherished memories in the hearts of her children - Yvonne Perry, Sharon Woods, Ramona Jones, Brian Woods, 11 grandchildren (Quiona, Damion, Danyal, Whitney, James, Jamal, Sydney, Loran, Mason, Winona, and Elijah), 6 great grandchildren (Dot, Destiny, Jade, Jayla, Jacoby, and Kennedy), several nieces and nephews, two loving son-in-laws (Darryl Jones and Kelly Perry), and a host of many relatives and friends.

Lena was preceded in death by her Parents, George Watson and Leola Robinson; Husband David Woods; Brothers James B. Robinson and John Henry Jones, Jr.; Sisters Louise Robinson, Florene Gates, Calle B. Robinson, Grace Brooks, and Levonia Kinkle.