Phyllis G. Woods

Phyllis G. Woods, 97, of Edinboro, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, April 27, 2024 at Edinboro Manor. She was born on February 5, 1927 in Draketown, PA, where she grew up on a farm with her parents, the late Kenneth and Elizabeth (Sherwood) Gardner, and older brother, Axell. 

In 1944, Phyllis graduated from Edinboro High School, where she met her sweetheart and future husband, Vere Woods.  In January 1945, she and Vere married before he was drafted into the U.S. Army. The two were married for 70 years. They created a beautiful life together and built their home on a farm that would become Woods Dairy Farm in Edinboro. In 1968, they opened Woods Dairy Store, which was a favorite for both local and Erie families for fresh milk until the doors closed in 1983.  

Phyllis enjoyed keeping busy and had an abundance of energy.  She was known to stay up late and rise early to care for her family. She spent countless hours in her kitchen preparing delicious food and baked goods. She not only raised her 4 sons, but she and Vere provided meals and lodging for many boys and hired men over the years; providing a “second home” to those who needed it. The door was always open to their warm and loving home and those who visited would be offered a slice of pie and a glass of sweet tea.  She had a heart of gold and there was always room around the dinner table for one more. 

Phyllis was employed for many years as Secretary to the President of Edinboro College.  She was a member of Eastern Star with many of her closest friends and a past Worthy Matron.   She enjoyed politics and serving the community as a Republican Committee Woman.  She was a long-time member of Edinboro United Methodist Church. Her close relationship with the Lord and her faith and trust in God’s plan for her life was demonstrated in the strength and perseverance she showed when she faced considerable loss in her life.

Phyllis and Vere enjoyed square dancing and golf dates, and they traveled the world together with friends. She was a member of local women’s golf and bowling leagues for many years. She grew the most beautiful flower gardens and was fond of hummingbirds. Playing the piano was a skill she learned as a child, and it continued to be a source of pleasure throughout her life.  She had a witty sense of humor, even in her later years. She enjoyed laughing and spending time with friends, but her greatest joy was her time spent with her grandchildren.  No matter what she was busy doing, she would pause to rock and sing to them, play with them and love on them.  Phyllis will be remembered by all those she encountered for her kind, sweet, patient, and selfless spirit. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Vere; two sons, Rexford and Daniel; and brother, Axell Gardner.  

She will always be cherished by her sons, Wynn (Tina Adams), Dean and his wife Vera, both of Edinboro; 7 grandchildren, Steven Woods, Hannah Menn, Hillary Warner, Joshua Ennis, Melissa Mondich, and Sara and Libby Woods;  8 great grandchildren; and nieces, nephews, cousins and friends that were like family. 

We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Edinboro Manor who provided quality care for Phyllis for the last 2 years.  

Friends and family may call at Glunt Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 210 Erie St., Edinboro, on Friday, May 3, 2024 from 4-7 p.m. A service will be held at Edinboro United Methodist Church, 113 High St. Edinboro, on Saturday, May 4, 2024 at 11 a.m., with Pastor Ed Schoeneck officiating.  

She will be laid to rest with her husband, Vere, in Draketown Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Danny Woods Baseball Scholarship c/o Wynn Woods, 13325 Water St. Ext., Edinboro, PA  16412. To send condolences, please visit www.gluntfuneralhome.com