Jean Ann Woods

In loving memory of Jean Ann Woods, 80, who passed away on Sunday, May 4, 2014 while resting peacefully in her Cicero, Indiana home surrounded by her closest loved ones. As the matriarch, she continued being an inspiration and the foundation of the family to the end. Jean is survived by Marcus, her husband of 48 years; her children: Marcus II (47), Patrick (46) and Edith (45): her daughter in law, Rachel (41); and seven grandchildren: Alexander, Nicholas, Elijah, Matthew, Joshua, Sophia and Luke. She was preceded in death by her mother, father, sisters and brothers. While Jean accomplished many wonderful things, it was her devotion to her family that best characterizes her life. At all costs, Jean put her family in front of everything in her life even in passing. A dedicated wife, Marcus and Jean spent 56 years in each other's company. They met while in their 20's and through a 7 year courtship realized that they had found lasting love and a soul mate. God blessed them with three children who became the center of Jean's world. After raising her children, the Woods' family was blessed again with seven grandchildren. Jean absolutely adored her husband, children and grandchildren and would show her affection at countless family gatherings, continuous acts of kindness and a spirit that reverberated through the family. A devout Catholic, Jean treasured the holidays and always brought the family together through traditions that will be passed down from generation to generation. Before moving to Cicero, IN three years ago, Marcus and Jean resided in Brownsburg, IN where they raised their family and were parishioners at St. Malachy Catholic Church. Jean's presence was undeniable. Her bright smile was contagious and her laughter filled a room. An accomplished story teller, Jean would mesmerize family and friends with countless stories, life lessons and funny antidotes even if you heard them a number of times. She had spunk; a playfulness, a charisma, and an optimism that drew people to her. Jean touched almost every person she came in contact with. She had an innate ability to connect with people in a deeply personal way and you desired to be around her. Throughout her life, our family was often reminded by acquaintances and strangers alike, how Jean had impacted their lives in some way. Jean seldom met a stranger and always had a kind word for everyone. Jean faced her fears, struggles and adversities with strength, dignity and grace. Her devout love of God and the abundant optimism it brought her led Jean always to see the good side and opportunity in everything. She was brave beyond words and the foundation of the family. A great confidant, she always told it how it was and with sound advice. Even in the end, Jean's energy level and work ethic were legendary. She was often found cooking elaborate feasts, caring for a house full of grandchildren or participating at Sacred Heart of Jesus in Cicero, IN. In her passing, she might have shared, "perhaps my time seemed all too brief, don't lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your hearts and share with me, God wanted me now: He set me free." May God bless you and bring you home. We love you and miss you, Jean... Wife, Mother, Grandmother and Friend. To honor Jean, a visitation will be from 7 PM - 9 PM on Tuesday, May 6, 2014 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, 410 S. Pearl Street, Cicero, IN. A Catholic Funeral Mass will follow on Wednesday, May 7, 2014 at 10:00 AM also at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church. Arrangements are entrusted to Hartley Funeral Homes Cicero Chapel where you may send condolences at www.hartleyfuneralhomes.com. Visitation
May 06, 2014
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church 410 S. Pearl Street
Cicero, IN
(317) 984-2115 Funeral Mass
May 07, 2014
10:00 AM
Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church 410 S. Pearl Street
Cicero, IN
(317) 984-2115