Wilma Dean Henson-Woods

Wilma Dean Henson-Woods, 86, of Kilgore, Texas died on April 5, 2024.

“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” Psalm 91:1 NIV

Wilma Dean Henson Woods was born September 1, 1937, as the second of four children to John H. and Lillian Henson. She was born in Rusk County, in the Clover Community of Overton, Texas. Wilma graduated from New London High School in 1956 and then attained a Cosmetology license. She would enjoy a fruitful career in education serving as an administrative assistant at C.B. Dansby, a teacher's aide working with special needs children at East Texas Treatment Center, and as an educator and Librarian at Kilgore ISD where she retired in 1991. Wilma leaned into her love of cooking and serving in the cafeteria at Sabine High School. Subsequently, she transitioned to volunteering as a caregiver at various facilities and as a voting poll worker and election judge. Additionally, Wilma passionately served as the Treasurer of the Pioneer Garden Club. Wilma, a true social butterfly, enjoyed interacting with her many family and friends and cooking for others at every opportunity.

In 1956, Wilma met James E. Woods and married on June 2, 1961, sharing 63 years of marriage. This union blessed them with three beloved children: Pamela, Karl, and Lynn. They put down roots in Liberty City, Texas, where they lovingly raised their family. Over the years, they kept numerous farm animals and tended many vegetable gardens. Wilma had a passion for cooking and rightfully gained recognition for her homemade dressing and peanut patties, especially during the holiday season.

In addition to her love for her children, cooking, and caring for others, Wilma's most recent favorite role was that of a grandma. She loved being a grandmother and great-grandmother and cherished the time she spent with them. To them, she will forever be remembered as the loving and devoted “Granny.” In addition to her three children, Wilma leaves behind 11 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

She united with the Macedonia Baptist church at an early age. She later joined Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Kilgore where she devoted her time and energy to the Women’s mission program and serving wherever she was called. Her favorite passage of the Bible was Psalms 23.

Wilma entered the kingdom of Heaven on April 5, 2024, surrounded by her family. Wilma was preceded in death by her mother and father, John H. and Lillian Henson, in-laws, Manuel and Lizzie Woods, and sister, Verne Wiley. Left to cherish her life, love, and memory are her husband, James Earl Woods, and three children, Pamela Chappell (Wayne), Karl Woods (Gina), Lynn Kenney (Steven), and grandchildren; Krystian Beckworth-Davis, Kelton Kenney, Lyndzie Reid, Cory Woods, Jasmine Chappell, Sheniece Chappell, Casey Williams, Wayne Chappell Jr., Cameron Woods, Lauren Chappell, and Kaden Kenney; great-grandmother of Kaeson Kenney, Elijah Kenney, Tristan Spivey, Mark Williams III, Mila Williams, and Kristopher Henderson Jr., brother John E. Henson (Vorice), and sister Donnie Emerson (Wilbert).

Wilma will forever be treasured for her strong spirit and caring demeanor, always putting others' needs before her own. Her cheerful "Hey Sugar!" greeting will remain a fond memory. Wilma's presence brought light, love, and excitement into every room she entered. Each day, her absence is keenly felt, as she was not only an exemplary wife, mother, and grandmother but also a source of boundless love and support to many of her extended family and friends. Those who held her dear will forever hold her memory close in their hearts. As her cherished loved ones, though saddened, we find solace in knowing that she resides in the divine presence, eagerly anticipating the day when we will reunite with her once more.

“We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 5:8 NIV