Deacon John Wesley Woods

Deacon John Wesley Woods, Sr. departed this life and was called from labor to reward on June 9,2021.John, also affectionately known to some as “Johnnie” and “Dec.” was born in Emanuel County, Ga on April 30, 1947 to the late Gertrude Connor Woods and Orzia Woods, Sr.

He is a 1966 graduate of Emanuel County Elementary and High School. Following high school he served two years in the United States Military where he received the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and the Sharp-Shooter Award. John furthered his education by attending and graduating from Swainsboro Area Vocational-Technical School where he received certifications in Heating and Air Conditioning, Supervisor Training and Electrical Wiring. He was a well-respected certified electrician and provided services for many families in Swainsboro and neighboring communities.Over the years, Dec. Woods held many jobs and he retired from Rayonier in Nunez, Ga in 2011.

He joined Mt. Gilead Missionary Baptist Church in Canoochee, GA at a young age and was a devoted member his entire life. He was an integral part of the church and served on many committees. He served as chairman of the deacon board and Superintendent of the Sunday School for many years. His commitment and dedication to his beloved Mt. Gilead cannot be expressed in mere words but will be a memory that will always be cherished.

Due to his vast knowledge of the duties of a deacon and experience serving in the deacon ministry he was often called upon to share his expertise with others. He was a well-known deacon in the community and supported several churches by leading devotional services and speaking on various programs.

He was a dedicated member of the St. Phillip Lodge No. 96 for over 51 years. He served as Most Worshipful Master and treasurer for many years. Being a Mason was a service that he took great pride in and he upheld the principles of the order with honor and dignity..

Deacon Woods was a family man and enjoyed spending time with his wife, children and four grandchildren.  He also loved working with his hands building and fixing things. He was an excellent carpenter, gardener, and loved doing yard work.  He was an avid bible reader as well, some would even say a bible scholar, and he spent time daily studying God’s word.

Deacon John Woods was  truly a man of faith and strived to live his life according to Christ’s example. He served God by serving his fellow man and his presence in the community will be missed.

Deacon Woods was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, and three brothers. He leaves to cherish his memory the love of his life, his devoted wife of 49 years Joyce  Turner Woods, two daughters, Kim Woods of Metter, Ga, Monica Woods of Swainsboro, Ga, three sons, Timothy Woods(Tanginika) & Michael Woods(Karen) of Swainsboro, John Woods, Jr. (Laveda) of Sylvania,Ga.   Four grandchildren, Jayvis Woods, Cameron Cummings Woods both of Swainsboro, Ga., Jaymin Woods of Sylvania, Ga., and Mikaela Woods of Swainsboro, Ga.  One brother, Clarence Woods(Mattie) of Pahokee, Fl, a sister in law, Wylene Woods of Swainsboro, Ga., A dear niece and great nephew, Linda and Devon Thomas  of Swainsboro, Ga, a brother-in-law and friend, Terry Odom, a number of sister and brother in laws, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends

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