Coach Russell Perry Woods, Jr.

Remembering His Legacy

Russell Perry Woods Jr. was born on May 18, 1932 in Valdosta, GA to the proud and loving parents, the late Russell Woods Sr. and late Alice Sampson. He was educated in the Valdosta City Schools and later attended Dasher High School. Russell was united in holy matrimony to Margaret Flucas. To this union six children were born. Russell loved his family immensely and was always willing to sacrifice and give them his very last. On September 15, 2007, Russell was baptized at Grace Fellowship SDA Church in Valdosta, GA, and served as a faithful member until his health failed.

“Coach Russell” as he was affectionately known and called by many and his players, had a heart of gold and his life was a light to everyone he met. He loved people and in return was loved by so many. Russell had a beautiful spirit that touched and influenced many young men. He was a God fearing man, husband, father, grandfather, uncle and Coach. He served his country and fought in the World War II in the United States Army for two years. After the military, he became an employee at Langdale Lumber and worked there until he retired. Having a genuine love for sports, he coached multiple little league teams for over 53 years. What made Coach Russell so special was his love for football. Even though he excelled in baseball and basketball his true passion was football. From playing in high school to teaching and coaching, he was able to pass his experience and life lessons to his students and to all who would listen. Coach Russell placed great value on God, family and work. He was a man that lived knowing that one day he would leave knowing he taught his family and his football players how to live life and work with others. Russell was a   die-hard Wildcat fan and he never missed a Friday night game at the Bazemore-Hyder Stadium also known as “Death Valley” where he supported the youth in the community.

On December 8, 2019, Russell grew angel wings, and peacefully transitioned to Heaven. His life and legacy will be cherished by all those that were blessed to know and love him. In addition to his parents, Russell is preceded in death by one daughter, who passed away as a newborn; his brother: Elijah Woods; one sister: Mary Alice Mazion; and one grandchild: Antonio Woods.

“Coach Russell” leaves cherished memories, smiles, and a lasting legacy to his six children: Ronald Woods (Cecelia), Valdosta, GA; Wanda Scurry (Henry), Valdosta, GA; Lona Woods, Valdosta, GA; Elijah Woods (Arcie), Colorado Springs, CO; Tony Woods (Anne) Atlanta, GA; and Monica Taylor (Carlton), Valdosta, GA; three sisters: Elnora Newton, (Valdosta, GA), Bernice Baker (Valdosta, GA), and Thelma Pearl (Clifford), New Jersey; seven grandchildren: Cecelia Aboria (Martin), Teresa Carter (Danny), Tamika Ruffin (Corey), Joseph Edwards (Konjeta), Avery Woods, Seven Palmer Bey, and Larry Graham; a special friend: Mary Scurry; a special great-granddaughter: Shontajah Small, and a host of great-grandchildren, great great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

The Celebration of Life for the late Coach Russell Perry Woods, Jr. will be Sunday, December 15, 2019, 3:00 p.m., Grace Victory Church, 303 N. Forrest Street, Valdosta, GA.

Interment, Pallbearers Cemetery, Valdosta, GA.

Public viewing, Saturday, December 14, 2019, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Godfrey Funeral Home.

Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online registry at www.godfreyfuneralhome.net.

Personal and professional services provided by Godfrey Funeral Home, LLC.