Stephen Woods

Stephen Woods, 65, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, December 14, 2021, at his home in Woodbine, Texas.

Steve was born October 15, 1956, in Gainesville, Texas to the late Billy Woods and Patty Henry King.  He had one brother Michael King of Carrollton, TX, and three half-sisters Kimberley King Hellinger of Gainesville, Valerie Woods Owen of Hayden, ID, and Keeli Woods of Las Vegas, NV.  He was preceded in death by his parents as well as his wife Mary Ann and a brother, Billy Dale Woods Jr.

He had three children - Kristi Newland of Diana, TX, Kelli King of Mt Pleasant, TX, and Blake Neu of Indianapolis, and two stepsons, Glen and Willie Hogan of Gainesville. He is survived by seven grandchildren - Corey Johns, Jaylen Johns, Lucas Newland, Jacob Newland, Preston Tackett, Cpl. Lauren Homer and Shailoh Neu and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Steve attended Lindsay High School and will be remembered for excelling at basketball with his trick shots and impressive behind-the-back dribbling skills.  After one memorable game the opposing team’s coach asked him for his autograph.

Following high school, Steve joined the Navy and achieved the rank of Petty Officer serving tours in the Philippines, Bermuda, the middle east, Australia, and other foreign locations.  During his time in the Navy, he served on the aircraft carrier that was part of the team that retrieved the Apollo space capsules.

Steve loved his family and cared for his ailing mother for several years before she passed away.  He also loved dogs and provided care and a home to many strays.

A Celebration of Life event will be held at the VFW at 3332 N. Grand Ave, Gainesville, TX on Saturday January 29th between 2pm and 4pm and is open for anyone who would like to attend.  His remains and a plaque will be placed at the DFW National Cemetery in Dallas, Texas at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making donations to your favorite animal welfare charity.