Evelyn Victoria Woods

Evelyn Victoria Woods, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, departed this earthly life for heaven on February 4, 2024. Her loving children survive her, Timothy Woods (Kimberly), Taffanee Keys (Christopher), and Terrence Woods; grandchildren, Michael O'Neal, Myles O’Neal, Kennadie Woods, and Kaylop Woods (Tatiana), bonus granddaughter, Taylor Ruffin; three sisters, Mary Dobbins, Rebecca Sandy, and Jessie McKinney and a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, cousins, and friends. She will be missed by her family who are grateful to have had her serve as the matriarch of their family.

Evelyn was born on July 29, 1937, in Uniontown, Alabama, as the seventh of twelve children to Isaac and Susie Lee Rhone. She moved to Indianapolis with her newly married older sister, Bertha, and completed her high school education at Shortridge High School. She continued her education at the Indiana Business Institute and Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan.

Evelyn married the love of her life, Albert Woods, on December 12, 1958, and became a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Evelyn was affectionately known as Mom, Grandma, and “Grisma”. She was also known as Nannie to her sisters, nieces and nephews. Evelyn was a bright light and the driving force for the family. Always cheerful, youthful, full of energy, and wisdom, her love knew no bounds or limits. She would give her last and not blink an eye.

Evelyn worked for Indianapolis Public Schools, Charity Die School 27. As an educator, Evelyn, a role model, and mentor touched many lives. She cared deeply about the success and well-being of all of her students. Many of her students stayed in her life until her death, which is a testament to her positive influence on the lives of others.

After her retirement, she spent her time bringing joy to others. She was active in her children, grandchildren, family, and friends’ lives. She could be found at family events, on road trips with family, or spending time with her sisters at the casino, cashing in sizzling seven slots winnings on any given weekend. She was the go-to sister for advice, fun, consolation, and encouragement.

Evelyn had a love for music. At the ripe age of 86, she had a knack for technology and developed a YouTube playlist consisting of music by Joe Walsh, Jackson Brown, Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band, The Who, and Creedence Clearwater Revival to name a few. Her list also included traditional Motown R&B favorites like Aretha Franklin and Smokey Robinson and Down Home Blues artists like Muddy Waters. But one of Evelyn's favorite songs was “In the Summertime”, a 1970’s song by Mungo Jerry.

While we will grieve our loss and the hole her passing leaves in our hearts, we can rejoice in knowing that she knew the Lord. She will reunite with her loving husband, Albert Woods, her parents Issac and Susie, and her siblings, Bertha Mae, Delores, Dorothy, Susie, Sidney, Isaac, Clarence, and Willie who preceded her in death.

Visitation for Evelyn will be held at Crown Hill Funeral Home and Cemetery, 700 West 38th, Street, Indianapolis, IN 46208 on Tuesday, February 13th, 2024 from 10:00 am to Noon.

Funeral services will be held at Crown Hill Funeral Home and Cemetery on Tuesday, February 13th, 2024, at noon with the Rev. Bryan Smith, Paster of Visitation of St. Luke's United Methodist Church officiating. Committal to follow at Crown Hill Cemetery. Arrangements are by Crown Hill Funeral Home.