Mary Lou Woods

As Mary Lou Woods, of Ashford, Alabama, passed away leaving behind a legacy woven with love, family, and devotion. She was born on November 16, 1944, in Greenhead, Florida, to the late Daniel and Leila Adell Clark. One of eleven children, Mary Lou was raised in Panama City, Florida, where she grew up surrounded by the strength and closeness of a large, loving family.

It was in Panama City that Mary Lou met the love of her life, Jeff Earnest Woods Sr. Together they shared 46 years of marriage, building a home rooted in faithfulness, laughter, and deep family bonds. Their life together was marked by enduring love and unwavering commitment to one another and to their children.

Mary Lou had a special gift for creating beauty with her hands. She lovingly hand-sewed quilts for those she cherished, each stitch a reflection of her care, patience, and generous heart. These quilts became treasured keepsakes—lasting symbols of her warmth and the love she so freely gave.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Jeff Earnest Woods Sr.; her daughter, Hellen Woods; her grandson, Daniel Wilkes; her daughter-in-law, Malisa Woods; and several brothers and sisters.

Mary Lou is survived by her children, Molly Abbott (James Sr.), Jeff E. Woods Jr., and Anna Woods (Sonny); and her son-in-law, Jerry Woods.

She also leaves behind a large and loving family of grandchildren: Robert Wilkes Jr.; Brandy Hires (Mike); James Abbott Jr.; Charles Abbott; Joseph Abbott; Andrew Abbott; Christopher Young (Virginia); Meagan Locklar; Jeff M. Woods; Emma Rocha (Greg); Mary Elizabeth Wiggins (Aaron); Christopher Woods (Maiah); and Tessa Woods.

Her legacy continues through her cherished great-grandchildren: Taylor Thaxton; Chloe, Mason, and John Hires; Abigail, Grace, and Wyatt Wiggins; Maverick, Octavia, and Lucia Rocha; Cailyn and Camila Young; and Leonardo Meola, as well as a god great granddaughter.

Mary Lou’s greatest joy was her family, and her life was a testament to love given freely and faithfully. Her kindness, strength, and the love she stitched into every quilt will be remembered always by all who were blessed to know her.

A celebration of Mary Lou’s life will be held on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 10am in the Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with burial to follow in Antioch Baptist Church Cemetery.