Joseph Woods Jr, a beloved member of the community, embraced the joys of life and left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him. Born on January 5, 1936, in Welch, WV, Joseph passed away peacefully on September 15, 2023, in his home in Columbus, OH, surrounded by his loving family. He was 87 years old.
Joseph’s presence in the lives of his family and friends was truly remarkable. As a devoted husband, he shared 63 years of marriage with his loving wife, Hattie Woods. Together, they created a nurturing environment and raised a beautiful family. Joseph was a dedicated father to his ten children: John E. Webb, Robin (Sylvan) Wilson, Rochelle (Gary) Butler, Fontessa Bridges, Vanessa Thomas, Byron Woods, Christopher Woods, Joseph Woods, Trina Brown, and Maelin Woods. He cherished his role as a father, offering guidance and support throughout their lives.
An Elder at Bible Way Church of our Lord Jesus Christ and Devine Refuge Ministry, Joseph’s faith played an instrumental role in his life. He devoted countless hours to his church, inspiring others with his spiritual guidance and unwavering commitment. Joseph’s love for God’s word was evident to all who knew him, as he possessed an exceptional knowledge of his faith.
Outside of his spiritual endeavors, Joseph had a zest for life. He approached every day with an infectious laughter and a jovial spirit, bringing joy to those around him. Known for his love of sports, Joseph enjoyed playing softball and was always ready for a friendly competition. He also had an appreciation for good food and was considered a true connoisseur.
Joseph’s work ethic was unparalleled. He served his country as an Air Force Veteran and dedicated 45 years of his life to the U.S. Postal Service as a mail handler. Even in his retirement years, he continued to work diligently, putting in hours at L Brand and Walmart, showcasing his work ethic and determination.
In addition to his many accomplishments, Joseph left a lasting legacy as a mentor to countless individuals. He possessed a genuine desire to guide and inspire others, leaving an indelible impact on their lives.
Elder Woods was preceded in death by his parents Joseph Woods and Mary (Elwood) Moss and sister, Evangelist Ophelia Peacock, great-grandson, Ayaan Wayne Lesley.
Along with his wife and children, Joseph was deeply loved and will be dearly missed by a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren and special nephews and nieces. His kind spirit, wisdom, and guidance will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
On Tuesday September 26, 2023, at 12:00 pm, there will be a visitation followed by a funeral service at 1:00 pm, both held at Marlan J. Gary funeral home 5456 East Livingston Ave, Columbus, Ohio 43232. These services will provide an opportunity for family, friends, and community members to come together to celebrate Joseph’s life and pay their respects.
Joseph Woods Jr will forever be remembered as a pillar of strength, a mentor, a loving husband, a devoted father, and a cherished friend. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire us all.
Family will receive friends Tuesday, September 26, 2023, at 12pm until time of service at 1pm at Marlan J. Gary Funeral Home, Chapel of Peace East, 5456 East Livingston Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43232
Joseph: Hebrew origin meaning “Jehovah shall add”
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I am so sorry for your loss. Mr Woods was so nice and always had a kind word to share. He was an inspiration to many. He was indeed a man of strong faith and will be greatly missed. The memories he gave you will last a lifetime. Sending love and prayers to the family.
A life well-lived! May he enter into his eternal rest, in peace! Praise the LORD, who faithfully keeps His covenant with His people, and their children! Amen!
Min.Byron & family: We are saddened to hear of the passing of Elder Woods, we share in your grief, yet we share in your rejoicing for a life well lived as a believer in Jesus Christ. The kindness, anointing , love & Word of God that flowed from him has touched us here in North Carolina so , that he is known as Father Woods. We will truly miss that kind but thunderous voice, the love of God that he shared with so many. Most of all we are thankful for the legacy of faith he leaves with family and all of us who were touched by his life. We give God glory for the mighty man of Valor & warrior that is now at home ,at peace & from labor to reward. Our deepest sympathy , the Pastor, officers & church family of Trinity Deliverance Holy Church & Prayer line family, Wilson N. C. ❤️
Elder Woods was a great mentor in the gospel and one of the best men I had a chance to meet. He was there for me during some troubling times in my life. Always listened and had a good word and scripture for me. He was there when I received Christ in my life came back to church after a Sunday night service and I’ll never forget that 42 years ago at Divine Refuge Church of Christ Pastored by the late Bishop George C. Plummer… trials and tribulations were promised to us all and it was also instructed to be of good cheer for our Lord had over come the world. Elder Woods brought the Cheer during tribulation times in my life with that smile, laugh and the word of God! Will be missed! Prayer of Strength and Comfort to the family ❤️❤️
Trina, Very sorry for your loss. Your father sounded like a thoughful and godly man. Pease and comfort to your family.
Sister Hattie and family: we at Divine Kingdom Builders, extend our deepest sympathies at the homegoing of Elder Woods. He served faithfully and was a friend to so many of the members. He will be greatly missed when we worship for his preached Word, his exhortation and loving discourse. Prayers of intercession are going forth for you each day that the peace of God will comfort your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Minister Byron and Family,
Our prayers are with you and your family. May the peace of God continue to comfort and strengthen you in the days to come. Prayer Partners for Christ- North Carolina, Maryland, Virginia and Georgia.
To the entire family I’m praying that God gives you peace in the time of sadness. My experience with Elder Woods was always pleasant and you could count on a smile and a question of “How you doin Brother Conley always good to see you” no matter where you see him work or church. I made it my business to get that greeting from him.and of course the family that he help produce was a true example of Love& kindness towards me . Again I send you Love.
Word came to us about the passing of Dad Woods. We are saddened that we won’t get to see him here again. He wore many hats, but I was impressed with him as a family man. He was loved and respected. I appreciated him as a brother in Christ. There was never a time when we met that his genuine smile didn’t say that he was glad to see me. To those he leaves behind, we offer our empathy and condolences. He made his mark and left a good example to follow. God will see you through and there are many of us who are willing to help you. In Love
I will always remember the way you lit up the room at work when you walked in. When you would call my name, I could feel the love and kindness when spoke. The words of encouragement you gave everyone you spoke to. That will always be remembered. Thank you your Walmart granddaughter. ❤️
Dear Family,
I’m saddened to know of your loss. I pray that God keeps you during this time of separation. I didn’t have frequent interactions with Elder Woods but those that I did have I remember the warmth of his spirit and his engaging smile. God’s grace and peace be with you.
Mr. Joseph was the best. From the first time I met him at LBrands we hit off. I knew there was something special about him. If we were in the breakroom together I would always buy him and I a root beer soda. One day I was off work and when I came back there was a 2 liter bottle of root beer in my office. He had a big heart and bigger smile. I will miss our talks Mr. Joseph. You inspired me more than you know. Rest in Paradise sir!
To the family of Elder Joseph Woods
I met Mr. Joseph when I started working at Victoria’s Secret (LBrands) in 2020. One evening while on break, we started talking like a father to a daughter. He asked me if I grew up in Ohio. I told him “No. I was born and raised in a small coal mining town in WV called Keystone”. Then he told me he had an aunt that lived there and her name was Mrs. Elvira Neal. I told him she lived up on the hill from where my family and I lived. From that day, instead of calling me Tanya, he started calling me Tauncy Bell LOL.
He prayed with me when my mother was sick and later passed away (August 15, 2022) and also when my sister passed (November 25, 2022).
I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Joseph’s passing. He is going to be missed by many. My condolences to the entire family. Rest In Heaven Mr. Joseph.