As a music education major at OSU; I had Dr. Woods as a teacher for instrumental music methods. He made us work hard ; but was very fair  in his praise and criticism. He was also my student teaching supervisor. He was , again very fair with praise and criticism. 
One word that I notice many ,many times as I have read through these comments is his KINDNESS. He exuded kindness at all time. He was a very extraordinary educator and human being. He will be greatly missed.
Sending very special thoughts and prayers to Donna Woods and the whole family.

Jan Goodwin
Alumni ,1983

The Memorial Service for Dr. Woods today was a true tribute to the Master of the OSUMB.  It was a real honor to have Dr. Woods direct our sons Kelly (OSUMB '92-'94)and Kevin (OSUMB '93-'96) in his Band.  God bless you, Donna, and all the family.
Connie and Doug Weakley (OSUMB '59-'62)

In the OSUMB in 1989, we had a memorable first week - tryouts then three shows in three days.  Saturday in Ohio Stadium with the alumni (on the college gridiron) for the Oklahoma State-Ohio State game during John Cooper’s second season.  Sunday we bussed to Boardman, and performed on their HS field (different field markings) while enroute to Buffalo, NY.  We were on Monday Night Football on ABC at Rich Stadium on an NFL field (even different field markings).  Dr. Woods and his staff charted our shows and we memorized “SHOUT!” for the Buffalo crowd – their cheer song.  We toured Niagara Falls and had an international OH-IO cheer (half the band and Dr. Woods went on the Maid of the Mist boat (we yelled OH!) and half the band was on the Canadian side yelling IO!) 
The 1989 trip for President George HW Bush’s Inaugural Parade - the night before we performed a concert in Woodbridge, VA which included several high ranking military officials and Jon conducted Dave Leppla’s arrangement of The Navy Hymn – the Navy brass were impressed.  After marching the parade in bitter cold temperatures, we had a party in the hotel ballroom and Donna surprised Jon with a cake for his 50th birthday (to the day) and we all sang to him.  We toured the US Capitol the next day in our sharply dressed neckties and blazer uniforms and were allowed to stand in the aisles on the floor of the US Senate chamber since our reputation as a respectful, high-class organization preceded us.   Another college band had been there before us and were dressed in sweatshirts and sweatpants and were not allowed even into the chambers.  Jon exuded class and excellence in everything he did and he made sure that we did as well.    
The next year (1990) The Script Ohio Club was formed to provide scholarships, instruments, equipment, and uniforms for the band.  In committee meetings over the past 25 years I saw how Jon’s love for the students came out time and time again as new goals were reached and he led fund raising for millions of dollars for OSU, all to benefit the students under his care.  He also was kind and supportive to the OSU Alumni Band as he would negotiate on our behalf with college band directors and athletic directors when we would request to perform in the stands at non-conference away football games around the country when the full OSUMB could not make the trip.  He joined us several times and directed us and played his trombone, most memorably in the first High Definition live broadcast of a US sporting event at the (#1) OSU – (#11) West Virginia game in 1998  in Morgantown (OSU 34-17).   I am forever grateful to have known Jon Woods as a teacher, friend, and fellow Buckeye.     (Pete Boriin Part 2 of 2)

With sympathy and prayers to Donna and the Woods family.  We will miss Jon but smile as we remember him fondly.  I met Dr. Woods in the summer of 1982 when he taught Timm Mackley's Hamilton High band drill routines for our “Fame” halftime show which Jon had designed and charted the formations.  Jon's wizardry and innovation were evident to our entire band.  Next I saw him in Pasadena as OSUMB marched by in the 1985 Rose Parade, and at the game in the Rose Bowl Stadium.  Less than a week afterward I began classes at OSU after transferring from Miami Univ.  I joined the OSU Military Band playing trombone for basketball games under the baton of Jon and Willie Sullivan.  Back then the Military Band wore a basic black ROTC uniform with a white belt.  In 1986, to commemorate 50 years since Jesse Owens’ great feat in the Berlin Olympics, OSU saluted all of the 1936 US Olympic team -- we stood at attention on the field in block band for 27 minutes on a sunny day in May (we didn't know we'd be there as each member's life accomplishments were read on the loud speaker whether they were living or not).  Dr. Woods taught us to adjust to the situation with respect, perseverance, determination and to be considerate and kind to all.  We were very proud to represent OSU that day and anytime we put on the uniform.  
Dr. Woods was very innovative and respected tradition at the same time.  As OSUMB Director, he wore many hats:  Director, fundraiser, father-figure, architect of the new state of the art multi-million dollar Steinbrenner Band Center, musician, planner, project manager, tour director, professor, motivator, husband, and friend.  He was masterful at the art of pumping up the crowd - he did not need to coordinate via headset with a person in the press box.  He could sense the crowd and could use the tools at hand - music from the horns, or beats from the drums or collaboration with Judy Bunting’s cheerleader squad and the students in Block O.  He could get 100,000 fans in Ohio Stadium on their feet and going crazy and he could get thousands of Buckeye faithful in away game stadiums cheering too.  All without video boards or blaring canned music.  Jon was in touch with the students more than anyone I knew.  Jim Tressel recognized that immediately when he came to campus.  Jon was one of the first people he called.  Jon worked with Jim and they changed pregame so the team could be on the field for the national anthem and Jim and the team came to Jon at the end of the game to sing Carmen Ohio with the band.  
Jon sought excellence in all that he did, for example, his initiation of the collaboration between the best collegiate marching band with the world class Columbus Symphony and Maestro Alessandro Siciliani.  Woven with Gene D’Angelo’s arrangements for brass band and orchestra (Gene had been a member of both OSUMB and CSO), Jon and Alessandro’s OSU-CSO paring continues today (decades later) at annual performances that draw huge crowds.  (Pete Boriin Part 1 of 2)

When practice was over it was an honor for you to be picked to give the O-H! Although  Dr. Woods may not have known my name like some others, he pointed his baton at me. Thank you Dr. Woods! O-H!...O-H!...O-H!

Dish Gardens was purchased for the family of Dr. Jon R. Woods .

Condolences to the family on the passing of this most extraordinary man.

Dr. Woods was an inspiration for me to be persistent and aspire to strive for and achieve excellence in life's endeavors.  Thank you for your guidance and encouragement.  Godspeed.  Blessings and prayers to the Woods' family.

Philip Ogrod
OSUMB '87-'88

I was in the OSUMB for the '83 and '84 seasons, so I got to witness his transition from comic relief, Asst. director (Dr. Woods was a very funny person) to leader of the band! He made that transition beautifully. I remember being elated when he was announced as the new director! What a kind, and gentle man. I consider those years the best time to be in the OSUMB and Jon was a huge part of that! My thoughts and prayers are with Jon's family and friends.

The Kansas State University Marching Band purchased the Fireside Basket - White Rose and Calla for the family of Dr. Jon R. Woods .

On behalf of the entire Frank Tracz family I send our deepest and most sincere condolences on the passing of a dear friend and mentor.  Jon gave me the chance to learn from him and accepted me into his family.  Jon was one of the most sincere and loving teachers I have ever had and I attribute my success as a band director to him and his teaching.   He was the most patient and understanding teacher and leader I have ever experienced.  My life is better because of Jon and I will miss him dearly.  
Godspeed Jon.

Frank and Geralyn Tracz and family.

I played in the OSUMB under Dr. Woods.  Looking back I recall a strong and gentle leader who inspired each and every one of us by his example.  He earned tremendous respect and treated each of us with dignity.  I am a better person today because of Dr. Woods' high standards and his inspiring and compassionate leadership.  My deepest condolences to his family.
-Nicole (Feser) Clune, OSUMB '90, '91, '93

I always loved traveling with Jon to the numerous alumni clubs throughout the country.  We always had such great conversations and I loved the insight he would share with me regarding the bands upcoming performances.  The passion he had for TBDBITL was very evident during his presentations.  My deepest sympathies to his loved ones.

Blooming Basket was purchased for the family of Dr. Jon R. Woods .

Jon Woods was a great inspiration in my life! There are too many great memories to share here, but Jon really took me under his wing when I was the band's grad assistant in 1982. He then showed enough confidence to allow me to become one of the music arrangers for the band (since 1988). The best memories of Jon, however, are those of his kindness. He treated everyone with great respect, as if they were his own family.He always seemed to have time for everyone ("Woods Time"). God must have granted him some extra minutes in each day! I will miss our classic air-hockey battles! To my mentor and friend: Jon, may God take you into his fold, and bless your family. You will be missed!

Steve and Sheri Pfaffman purchased the Angel Memorial for the family of Dr. Jon R. Woods .

Dr. Woods gave me a chance to be in marching band when I was a marginal rookie 
senior, a bad investment for the band since I wouldn't be around for a second year.
I didn't get to know him much as a student, but as an alumnus he took time to talk
with me and to be kind, giving advice how to support a difficult band situation in my
current university.  He really cared about people and was a steady mentor to
a huge number of people.  I appreciate the support his family gave him while pursuing his
passion with enormous time and energy commitments.  I keep Jon, Donna and the
entire family in my prayers.
Gerry Williger OSU '84-85 R-6/13
Louisville KY

University of Nebraska Bands purchased the Grand Vase - The Lago for the family of Dr. Jon R. Woods .

Sending prayers to the family. Sorry for your loss.

Carl & Yvonne Hines

Grand Vase - The Basalt was purchased for the family of Dr. Jon R. Woods .

Rosie & Rich Angelica & Family. purchased the Angel Arrangement for the family of Dr. Jon R. Woods .

I had the chance to talk to Dr. Woods on several occasions. He was a kind decent man and he will truly be missed

Donna and children/granddaughter of Jon Woods.   I was a member of his first band in the Barnesboro/Spangler area and while it had been several decades since I had seen him, I attended a game at OSU in 2010 and introduced myself to him after the game.  He immediately responded "French horn" - the instrument I played in the band.  I was impressed that he remembered me as I was in his band 1964-1966 when he left to be band director in a neighboring community.  When I asked him how he remembered, he said "I'd never forget my first band".  He was an amazing band director, an inspiring leader and he instilled a sense of persistence and self discipline - characteristics I possess to this very day.  In addition, I had the very fortunate experience of knowing his mother, Madge Woods as I worked with her at the G.C. Murphy Company in the 1960's.  She would be so proud of her son and of all of his accomplishments.  He was truly an extremely talented musician and tremendous educator.  He encouraged us which meant we always strived to meet his expectations.  Many of us who were in his first band remember marching the hills of Pennsylvania during the summer, night after night despite the heat.  Our band camps and drills were at times agonizing but he took a no-nothing little band and made us champions.   I will never forget the "Twisting Tigers" or the pride I felt being in the band.   Ruth (Niebauer) McMonagle - formerly of Barnesboro, PA, now living in Youngstown, Ohio area..  May God bless you all.   I am sure you all had one great ride with this wonderful man.

As a 12 year old tuba player, I did not have a lot of fans. But a trip to Merry Tuba Christmas with my "i dotter" father changed that. It was there on cold Devember day that I stood flanked by Paul Droste and Jon Woods and had no idea of the company I was in. I knew that this man Paul was a friend of my dad and this other very kind man (Jon) gave me his own MTC scarve so I could be warm and keep playing. I kept playing for many years, in fact. At 36 yrs old I now know the company in which I stood very well! I thank god for this kind and gentle man who gave a little tuna player his scarve. I still keep that as a momento of the greatness I hope to achieve. To be at least a shadow of what he must have seen in me that day. I will never forget the impact he had on my life, my fathers life and life of so many others. 
Laura hopkins

Dr Woods meant the world to me. I told my students that if they have liked what I have done as their band director, they can thank Dr Woods. He believed in me when I didn't believe in myself. I owe him everything that I am as a director. My deepest sympathy to Donna and the family. We will miss you Doc!

Rod Miller
OSUMB 83-87

Our deepest condolences to the Woods family and all of your "extended" TBDBITL family. There are not enough words to describe what Jon meant to us as well as to so many others. He gave and gave and gave and with all of the work that he was responsible for, he found time to give even more. We were so honored to meet him so many years ago and since then we always referred to each other as "friends forever." Through his leadership and kindness, he taught so many young people how to tackle adult responsibilities and they are all the better for it. Those who left TBDBITL to become music educators are Jon's legacy and they will certainly carry on his passion for music and education. Friends forever, Marcia and Keith Neel

We will never forget Jon conducting "Carmen Ohio" after the amazing win over WI! What a thrill! 

My heart goes out to Donna, family and friends and our TBDBITL family. The lessons, passion and drive he gave to us is something that has become a part of who I am and what I hope to pass on to others. He will live forever in the lives of so many. And while his death has caused our joy to be still, our hearts will truly gain that "rebounding thrill" that he would want us to continue to hold onto as proclaimed in our beloved Carmen Ohio. A true Buckeye that I'm blessed to have been inspired and led by. 

Brian Reinhart, OSUMB '92-'96

I knew Dr. Woods throughout my 7 years at Ohio State. I have so many memories of him it is difficult to share just one. I am proud to have called him a friend and mentor and cherish the time I knew him. Several years after finishing my time in TBDBITL, I returned to Columbus for an Alumni game. After catching up with old friends at the Varsity Club I was walking back to my car and waited with Dr. Woods to cross the street. He turned to me and said "Hey Jason, how have you been?" I was shocked that he even remembered my name. We had a fantastic conversation for the next 20 minutes, not as student and teacher, but simply as friends. Jon was a good man and will genuinely be missed.

He reached millions of people through his work on the field.  A kind and gentle personality that motivated others to achieve perfection and  project emotions all the way to the last row of C-section.  The many, who were lucky enough to know him personally, were touched by his passion for music and love of humanity.

There is little I can say about Jon that hasn't already been said, other than to personally testify as to his profound and positive influence on me as a leader, educator, mentor, and friend. Jon will be missed; my thoughts and prayers are with his entire family.

G. Zonders, OSUMB '82-'86

Donna, Even though I haven't seen you since the old LaRue days, I sorry to hear of Jon's passing. I am sure the fond memories will help you through. Prayers to you and your family, may he rest in peace.

John & Lisa Appelfeller

OBITUARIO

Jon R. Woods

22 enero, 1939 – 12 septiembre, 2015

Schoedinger Midtown

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