Helen Louise Louise Woods

Helen "Louise" Woods, age 86, passed away on July 28, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was a graduate of Brighton High School, class of 1959. Helen was voted most athletic in basketball during her high school years. This was an achievement that she was very proud of.

Helen was married to her late husband, Chester Woods, 62 years. Together they shared one daughter, Stephanie. Helen was blessed to be able to stay home as a homemaker and care for their daughter and see to their home. One of Helen's many favorite things to do was cooking. She always had a four-course meal prepared and, on the table, before Chester went to work on the night shift.

She was a member of Central Christian Church, where she also sung in the choir. If there was ever an event at the church, Helen would always work in the kitchen to help in any way that she could. Helen was a very proud Nanny to her two great-granddaughters, Heidi and Maddie Grace. They were each the light of her life, and she enjoyed babysitting them from the time they were born until school age. She often referred to them as her pride and joy. Heidi was Nanny's calm and quiet helper, while Maddie Grace was Nanny's wild- tell it like it is child.

When Helen was no longer able to stay by herself due to her health, she moved in with her daughter and son-in-law to Charleston. At first Helen would say, "I am not so sure of living down in the boon docks." But she came to love it and found enjoyment in bird watching. A few of Helen's other favorite things included reading her bible, coloring, word search books, and shopping. One of her signature looks was wearing as much jewelry as she could get on, all while still looking classy as ever.

Helen is survived by her only child, Stephanie (Mike)Wright of Charleston, one grandson, Brandon (Mary) Elzie of Atoka, one granddaughter, Brittany Elzie of Memphis, two great-granddaughters, Heidi Elizabeth and Maddie Grace Elzie, one step-grandson, Mikey (Chelsea) Wright of Covington, three step-great-grandchildren, Lane, Landon, and Lana, and a host of nieces and nephews.