Dexter C. Woods

A son was born on May 2, 1947 in Chicago, Illinois to Evie and Gertha Woods, and they called his name, Dexter Carey Woods. He was the eldest of three siblings. He attended Sunday School and was baptized under the leadership of Pastor R.B. Lyles. He affectionally was known as “D”.

Dexter received his early educational training in East St. Louis, Illinois through School District #189. He attended the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, where a love story concurred between “D” and “E”! D met, courted, and married Edna James, his lifelong partner, on October 28, 1972. They enjoyed a long affair together for over 49 years! The two became three with the addition of a beautiful baby girl named Danielle “Nikki” on November 21, 1977.

He always had a love for learning, which led to a career in education that spanned over four decades. Dexter began working for Project Conquest, serving five year. In 1975, he began to teaching where he taught 5th and 6th grade, while also coaching volleyball and softball at Garrison Elementary until 1982. From 1982 to 1996, he taught English and Computer Literacy at Martin Luther King Jr. High, while also coaching football. In 1996, he was promoted to Principal Woods at Nelson Mandela Elementary School until 2004 when he then retired.

Mr. Woods received several recognition’s along his journey including Who’s Who Among Teachers, Parent Teacher Association and Principal’s Association awards. He was also a proud member of Kappa Alpha Phi Fraternity, Inc., Kappa Delta Phi Honors Society, Illinois Principal’s Association, and the East St. Louis Illinois Principal’s Association.

Dexter had a great love for children. His passion for learning was seen through the eyes of each of his life long-learners. After retirement, his hobbies included playing billiards and golf. Dexter was an avid football fan, whose favorite team was the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was also a St. Louis Cardinal’s fan, and just an all-around sports lover! He enjoyed music – jazz was his favorite. Before online shopping became popular, Dexter was a forerunner. He was a frequent online purchaser through QVC and the Home Shopping Channels. He was an avid Invicta watch collector, and photography was another one of his favorite hobbies.

Dexter transitioned from a labor of love to his HEAVENLY reward on November 21, 2021 in the comfort of his home, with his loving wife Edna by his side. Proceeding him in death are his parents Evie and Gertha, Uncle James and Aunt Willie Mae Woods, and his grandson Zyon.

Dexter is survived by his wife, Edna; daughter, Danielle; sisters, Beverly, Renee and Claudia; In addition to several nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, frat brothers, family and friends!