Edison Woods, Jr.

 "A life of service, devoted to Christian faith, while overcoming adversity" 

Many folks who read this are keenly aware that our Brother in Christ, Edison Woods, lost his physical ability to see at a very young age. But this disability did not prevent him from having a "vision for his life" that included helping many of his friends, co-workers, and fellow church members, with their own difficulties. Being confined to a wheelchair did not stop him either. Born in Lantana, Florida, with relatively limited resources, he managed to achieve many of his goals for an advanced education, a meaningful career, and service to others. After achieving bachelor's and master's degrees, Edison eventually secured employment as an Interpretive Park Ranger, with the National Park Service, at Gulf Islands National Seashore. In this position, over a period of several decades, he personally assisted thousands of visitors. Those of us who served as volunteer assistants to Edison, can bear witness to how effective he was in his role as a Ranger, despite his physical limitations. On a daily basis he was able to provide national park patrons with detailed information about Gulf Islands amenities, local history, and how to best enjoy their vacation time in our little paradise called "The Panhandle". People walked away from his desk smarter than when they arrived, and with a smile on their faces.

Most of us also understand that Edison had deep faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. When given an opportunity, he was always ready to share his faith in a meaningful way - leaving listeners with no doubt of his sincerity. At the churches that he attended over the years, his fellow members found him eager to serve in any capacity as he was able.

In his later years, Edison became an accomplished author. Some of his many writings can still be found on Kindle with subjects including Christian Faith, local history, and his personal beliefs regarding the culture that we live in today. His Kindle postings always stated that any profits realized from the sales of his pamphlets and books would be donated to Independence for the Blind, in Pensacola, FL.

It was a privilege, and a blessing, for all of us who were lucky enough to have Edison as a friend. He will always be missed, and never forgotten.