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BORN
1931
DIED
2015
Phil Woods Obituary
Funeral director Philip Bensing says Woods died Tuesday in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, and his family plans to complete arrangements Wednesday for private services. Bensing owns Bensing-Thomas Funeral Home in Stroudsburg.
Woods played his last show Sept. 4 at Pittsburgh's Manchester Craftsman's Guild, using oxygen to complete the performance. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Woods announced he had emphysema and was retiring due to health concerns.
Woods had a solo on Joel's hit, "Just the Way You Are," and Jones says, "There was a very specific reason Phil played on nearly every album I've made since 1956" calling him "the best jazz also sax player there was."
Copyright © 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
73 Entries
Lew Wygand
January 22, 2016
Greatest alto sax man. Saw him at Storyville in NYC for a week straight. Bought him a few drinks and talked about music and what he thought of being compared to Bird. A great musician and a hell of a nice man to boot.
The licks he played always had me on the edge of my seat. And what a great reader, he said to me it was just a gift he had. Will miss him dearly. Love ya Phil
George Kosich
November 8, 2015
Enjoyed his many performances in LA during the 1980's. He collaborated with my sax/woodwind teacher, the late Bill Green, in presenting Master Classes when in CA. His artistry will be missed!
George Kosich
Saxophonist and Vocalist
yves rodde-migdal
November 5, 2015
I remember some concerts in Paris with the quintet. It was absolutely incredible music. I saw him a lot of time ans we had just one thing in common. We were born the 2nd of november both. I told him once in Jazz Nice Festival in south of France. He was simple, nice guy. I miss him. RIP my brother YvesJazzlib' from Paris France
How you can show support
Rob Scheps
October 21, 2015
Phil Woods has been huge in my life. A towering figure, an absolute icon of the alto sax. Thank you, Phil.
October 15, 2015
He kept many austounded by his music and his talent, leaving a legacy of good music for many to enjoy. My heart goes to his wife and daughter, family, and close friends; expressing my sincere condolences for their loss. May they all receive the strengthen to endure from our Heavenly Father, for he promises to always become a stronghold to those clinging to Him in times of distress.
Bradford W Pires
October 13, 2015
What a tremendous loss to the jazz world. Phil was a one-of-a-kind alto man. He truly developed a very recognizable tone, phrasing,and approach to his solos. He has been a favorite since "Warm Woods", his epic ferocity recording with Joe Morello and Gary Burton on "It's About Time", and many others in later years. He will truly be missed. Thankfully, I own a lot of his vinyl and CD recordings that I will always treasure. RIP Mr. Woods! Sincere condolence to the family.
Thoughts and prayers to sweet Jill and family...from TN
Trish Kennedy
October 10, 2015
Kydd
October 9, 2015
Heard " Fill The Woods With Laughter" and I knew this cat was something special. If Quincy Jones and Dizzy Gillespie spoke fondly of you, your all right with me. Peaceful Journey my brother
George Bournazian
October 6, 2015
My deepest condolences to the Woods family. Phil was an inspiration to me and my friends as teenagers playing in our high school jazz band. I had the good fortune of seeing Phil/Tommy and Phil/Brian every chance I could from Albany to NYC to Raleigh. I still listen to his music every day at work. A true master on his horn. He will be missed but his great sound will live on.
Gary Karlin
October 5, 2015
My sincere condolences to Jill, Kim, Garth and the entire Woods family. I was so fortunate to have met Phil while at Ramblerny in 1965-66 and he forever changed my life. I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to reconnect at the Deer Head Inn over the last several years. I will miss him dearly.
D Tyler
October 5, 2015
Extending deep condolences to the Woods family. I am a true Jazz fan and I truly appreciated his music and talents. His music will live on and may your family find solace knowing that you can receive help to help us grow strong and endure daily. Philippians4:6-7.
October 5, 2015
May God strengthen you and your family during this difficult time. My prayers are with you and your family.
October 5, 2015
My condolences to friends and family. Please draw comfort from God's promises.
October 4, 2015
May GOD be with you and your family at this time.
terry martini
October 3, 2015
rest in peace PHIL you are now playing
that sax in heaven with Charlie and the rest of the jazz greats. my prayers go out to the family also in this time of mourning.
Bev Getz
October 3, 2015
Deepest sympathy & love to Jill and all Phil's family. RIP Phil. You presence worldwide is already missed. Thank you for leaving us all such a rich legacy through your music.
Charles Bulanti
October 3, 2015
Dear Woods family: You have my deepest condolences. Phi was a master of the alto sax. I still play alto and at age 92, when I take a solo, I think about how Phil would play it and then I hear the music. Thank you Phil for all the wonderful music. Your name will live on and God will hear prayers said for the repose of your soul. You were a top notch guy! Charlie Bulanti
Jeffrey Brown
October 3, 2015
Phil changed my life-3 inspiring Summer's at Ramblerny! An incredible experience with a very special man, mentor, friend. Heartfelt condolences to Jill, Kim, Garth and the entire family of friends. Missing you big.
Mary Green
October 2, 2015
RIP
Phil and I
sal alberico
October 2, 2015
There will never be another Phil....
October 2, 2015
Please accept my deepest sympathy. May the God of all comfort, provide your family with the needed strength to endure the loss of your love one.
Jim Buckley
October 2, 2015
His music remains in all of us who knew, and had the opportunity to around and learn from him. Music history will celebrate him and give him his proper due. RIP Jim Buckley
Lew Wygand
October 2, 2015
Idol has passed. I met Phil In the late 70s at storyville for a 1 week gig. He treated me as an old friend every night. Many will miss Phil but few as much as I, Love You Phil. Rest in Peace my friendand keep playin up there, I know he likes Jazz
Ron Drago
October 2, 2015
A sweet sound that I am going to miss but will live on in recordings. Sorry for your loss. Phil was such a wonderful musician.
Jeneva Thomas
October 2, 2015
My condolences go out to you and your family. Romans 12: 15
October 2, 2015
Death of a loved one it is the hardest things we can go through so please find comfort in knowing sickness, pain and death will one day be no more for this has been promised to us. With my deepest condolences for your loss.
Linda
October 2, 2015
Losing a loved one is so difficult. Please accept my sincere condolences. I love the promise at Psalm 147:3, "He heals the broken hearted; He binds up their wounds." May it bring you comfort in the days ahead.
Loved hearing you play last August at the Springfield Jazz Festival and spending time with you and Jill. Till we meet again Unc, Love and Peace
Cheryl Witek
October 2, 2015
Donna
October 1, 2015
To quote Phil, "We musicians are as close to God as man can be. We hear his voice, we read his lips, we give birth to the children of God, who sing his praise. That's what musicians are. I love that." He is now playing to God on a higher plain but memories of him will be forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Peace and love Phil.
L. T.
October 1, 2015
My deepest sympathy to the family on your loss my you find comforrt at Isa 33:24
Debbie Cerillo-Walck
October 1, 2015
I grew up in New Hope, PA where Phil had his Camp Ramblerney. He and my Step Dad tenor sax player Frank Vicari played together and hung out back in the day 1960's and again ran into each other at the Deerhead. They are jammin in heaven now man. Love the way you played the horn. Tell Frank Debbie said hi. Warmest regards to the family.
Kathie Stabulas
October 1, 2015
My dad Nick Stabulas wa adrummer and he worked with Phil Woods for many years. They recorded quite a few albums together. I remember swimming with him in my aunt's pool when i was a kid. Great talent.
Phil Woods
SPH
October 1, 2015
Phil had his own sound & played a very clean saxophone. His solo on "Doctor Wu" is top-shelf sax. With condolences to the Woods Family.
Blow in Peace, Brother.
October 1, 2015
Que muy pronto terminara el sufrimiento y eso lo dise revelasion 21.3.4
Arnett Howard
October 1, 2015
When the Saints go marching' in, I want to be in that number. God has blessed you with a good life.
Stewart
October 1, 2015
Please accept my condolences at this time. May God bring you comfort. Psalms 55:22
Perry Templin
October 1, 2015
When we all receive our rewards to pass over it really isn't going to be too bad.
We'll all have some great music to listen to by the best musicians.
God bless you Phil & your family.
Joe Harris
October 1, 2015
R.I.P Phil Woods, you left us with beautiful music and memories.
James W
October 1, 2015
We express our condolences to the Woods family, many friends and colleagues . Creativity with visionis a gift that should be enjoyed forever. May you find comfort in your many fond memories together, God's promise to undo all tragedy and the words of the greatest man who ever lived: "Two sparrows sell for a coin of small value, do they not? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father's knowledge. 30 But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 So have no fear; you are worth more than many sparrows." (Matt 10:29-31)
Cheryl Witek
October 1, 2015
Uncle Phil, you will forever remain in our hearts and in the hearts of all the people who knew and loved you. I was so happy to be able to spend time with you at your last concert here in our hometown. No more struggling to breath, peace is with you now. Your heavenly sound you shared with all of us here,is now being enjoyed in the Heavens above. RIP sweet man till we meet again. My heartfelt condolences to Jill, Garth & family, and Allisen & family. May all his wonderful memories with each and every one of you bring you some comfort during this difficult time. Love Cheryl
Sue Roth
October 1, 2015
Thank you for all the beautiful music from those glorious days that I thought would never end (Steely Dan) to the present day when so many are missing him. Peace and comfort to the loved ones and those who knew him personally. I was only an avid fan. The music can transport us to a happier time, where he dwells. Sue [email protected]
Dwayne Bickham,Sr.
October 1, 2015
In God's care rest in peace
October 1, 2015
God Almighty has said'"Like a man whom his own mother keeps comforting,so I myself shall keep comforting you people."Isa.66:13
This is his promise to us..........
T Davis
October 1, 2015
My condolences for the loss of your love one.
Greg Bobulinski
October 1, 2015
I got to work with Phil on Clark Terry's Big Bad Band in 1973 upon his return to New York from Europe. The Wichita Tour was an incredible adventure - with great music and many nights of big fun - from Chicago to Detroit to Tulsa to Wichita. What a tour! What a band! Phil blew his head off on every solo and led the sax section (which included Jimmy Heath, Arnie Lawrence, Charles Davis and Ernie Wilkins) with great expertise. He was truly an amazing musician with awe-inspiring technique, musical ideas, and soul. He will be missed. His standard of excellence was always top shelf. Things I remember Phil saying and still use in my daily life are: Be a cultured person!; Play something new to challenge the listener!; Go home and practice 8 days a week for 24 hours a day. Then you may get somewhere!; I still am trying to find the right note; the best note!!
I began teaching master classes about five years ago - [JAZZ - The Real Deal]. The first class was always dedicated to the life, music, and teachings of Phil Woods. Phil was a remarkable musician and a truly great human being.
Rest in Peace Phil. Performing with you was certainly a high point in my musical life. Thanks for showing the way and God Bless You and your family during this difficult time.
GROG
Greg Bobulinski
Jim Szantor
October 1, 2015
Another of my musical idols gone! R.I.P., Phil--you gave the world so much pleasure and inspired more musicians than you will ever know. Heaven's in E-flat from now on!
September 30, 2015
Ecclesiastes 7:1 - A name is better than good oil, and the day of death than the day of one'sbeing born
Ms Ruby
September 30, 2015
My condolences to the family. May God comfort you and give you peace of mind.
Marilynn
September 30, 2015
Please accept my sincere condolences for the loss of Mr. Phil Woods. Words cannot begin to express the sadness you're feeling right now, but I am Praying that God will grant you the strength needed to get through this moment in your lives. Throw your distress on God because he cares for you.
Kendra Kingsley
September 30, 2015
To the family may his memories comfort you. John 3:16 say God Loved the world so much that he gave his only begotten son. RIP
J. Lewis
September 30, 2015
My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Phil Woods. May memories of the good times shared help to ease your pain. And may knowing that those asleep in death have the opportunity to be restored to life in paradise bring you much comfort and peace. (John 11:11, 21-26)
carolyn
September 30, 2015
The Family,
My heartfelt condolences for your loss! May the God of all comfort continue to strengthen you during your sadness.
September 30, 2015
Very sad to hear of your loss. May you find peace & comfort in the words at, John 3:16........Ruth a friend. Ca.
T Crawford
September 30, 2015
My deepest sympathies to the Woods family for the loss of Phil. May God's Word strengthen you during this time of mourning. (Isa. 41:10,13)
September 30, 2015
Beloveds, I know he will truly be missed. May each of you find peace and comfort from God who assures us he won't leave us bereaved. (John14:18)
Scott Chamberland
September 30, 2015
Rest in Peace
September 30, 2015
sad
September 30, 2015
I read your loved one Phil woods life page.
He appeared to have lived a wonderful life. I too have lost loved ones, so i understand some of the pain you're feeling.
While doing some reading I came across a scripture that gave me some comfort.
2 Kings 20:5
I heard your prayers
I saw your tears
I will heal you
I hope you're comforted knowing that a stranger will have you and your family in their prayers tonight.
C. Nabor
September 30, 2015
He will be missed by all. May the God of all comfort help you to cope with your loss.
Adrian Barnette
September 30, 2015
We'll miss you !
Christina Olivieri
September 30, 2015
God bless this great master of Sax and jazz!!!!!!
September 30, 2015
Sorry to hear about your loss. May you find hope in the God of all comfort. 2 Cor. 1:3-5
September 30, 2015
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Richard Meredith
September 30, 2015
I saw Phil in Boston about 35 years ago. Remarkable artist. Rest in Peace and sympathy for his family.
September 30, 2015
Another great one gone. I am grateful for the music he left behind for us to enjoy for generations to come. Sincere condolences to his family.
September 30, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
September 30, 2015
I was just listening to Phil's version of "Stolen Moments" when I saw he had passed. I'm very sorry for your loss. He was a remarkable musician.
September 30, 2015
My deepest condolences to the family.
May the God of tender mercies, console
the family during the loss of your
dear beloved one.
May the heavenly Father give you guidance and the needed strength during the days ahead.
My heartfelt prayers are with the
family.
(Psalms 121)
TE, Louisiana
Jill
September 30, 2015
Sorry for your loss. This will be a difficult time, but may your memories and the peace of God sustain you. (Romans15:33)
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