Frances M. Woods

Frances Marie Woods, 87, peacefully passed away surrounded by family on July 4, 2014. She was preceded in death by her husband Charles C. Woods and her sister Mary Alice Lublin. She is survived by seven children, 15 grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Frances was born in Aspen, Colorado, to Francis R. and Nellie Ustick Lavey. She grew up in South Denver and attended South High School where she met Charles who later became her husband of 66 years. After graduating high school in 1944, she did war related work. When Charles returned from his war service in the South Pacific, they were married in August of 1946.

Charles Robert, the first child of seven was born in 1947. Kathleen, Richard, Joseph and Gary followed in 11 years with Michael and Patrick following in the later years. Raising these children lovingly and whole-heartedly became her life's work. Her heart expanded to welcome her children's spouses, grand and great-grandchildren. There was always room for nieces, nephews and a few young people who needed a temporary "mom."

Frances enjoyed bowling with her mom and sister for many years and played bridge with the same group of friends for more than 50 years. She was an enthusiastic swimmer and spent most summers with her children at one pool or another. Family camping trips were another favorite activity as was watching her children and grand children participate in school and athletic events. Her "spare" time was spent reading, sewing and walking for exercise.

In spite of health challenges in her final years, she maintained an indomitable spirit. When reflecting upon her life she'd say, "My family was my whole life and it was a good one."