Obituary

Raymond Pool Woods

November 4, 1947-January 27, 2018

Beloved husband, father, and grandfather Raymond Woods was born in San Diego on November 4, 1947, and died peacefully at home on January 27, 2018. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Amy; daughter, Lisa; her husband Mark Mantel; granddaughters Amara and Liana; sisters Judith Rae Woods and Nancy L. Baumgardner; and brothers Donald Mason Woods and Murray Lee Woods. He was preceded in death by his son Ronald Martin Woods and daughter-in-law Kelly Woods; and his father Raymond Pool Woods, Sr. and mother Lodema A. Woods.

An accomplished pianist, organist, and harpsichordist, Ray had a long career in music education and choral conducting. He also greatly enjoyed his opportunities to work with instrumentalists at his schools and in his concerts. He fought a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer for the last year of his life. He will be missed by all whose lives were touched by his music and by his love for teaching.

A memorial service will be held at Garden Grove United Methodist Church, 12741 Main St., Garden Grove (714) 534-1070, on Friday, February 2, at 11:00 A.M. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Garden Grove United Methodist Church music ministry or the SouthOrange County School of the Arts (SOCSA) vocal music department.

Memorial Service

Date & Time: February 2, 2018 (11:00 AM)
Venue: Garden Grove United Methodist Church
Location: 12741 Main Street Garden Grove, CA 92840 - (Get Directions)
Phone Number: (714) 534-1070

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57 responses to Raymond Pool Woods Jr.

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Samantha Kaeding says:

January 31, 2018

Mr. Woods was not just an educator, but he was a friend, mentor and father figure. His wisdom, joy, wit, and love will resonate with us forever. I cannot put into words how this man and his love for music changed my life. He saw the potential in every single student in his choir classes. He pushed me to be my best in such a loving and unique way. I never loved music until Mr. Woods revealed the beauty of choral, jazz, and classical music to me.. doing so by forcing me to do things I never wanted to do. But I will forever give him all the credit for creating a musician in me today. Mr. Woods taught me to grow, battle, and challenge myself in all areas of life. He alone has inspired me to pursue music. I have never met anyone who has impacted so many people with such a unique and beautiful soul. I will always have you in mind when singing, Mr. Woods. You will be incredibly missed.

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sharkey ihara says:

January 31, 2018

Mr. Woods,
thank you for four great years, lots of memories and wonderful experiences. Thank you for being so dedicated to music and to us.
Thank you for being encouraging, but also tough with us.
We traveled the world together!!
sharkey and ryo

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Suzie Oldfield says:

January 31, 2018

Thank you Mr. Woods, not only for empiwering and encouraging me and many others, but for all of the warm laughs, hugs, and opportunities you’ve given so many of us over the years.

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The Coutts family says:

January 31, 2018

Thank you Ray, for thousands of lives you have touched and made better for knowing you. And thanks to your dear family for sharing you with such generous hearts.

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Tina Chambere says:

January 31, 2018

Thank you for all you did for scores of SOCSA student…from a grateful former SOCSA parent

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