Kenneth King Woods

Kenneth King Woods, 93, Oak Grove, passed away Wednesday, March 24, 2010, at Oak Grove Nursing and Rehab Center. He was born June 7, 1916, in Cole, MO, the son of Ezra E. and Nora May (King) Woods. He was known as “Woody” or “Ken” by his friends

Kenneth grew up in El Dorado Springs where he was a high school athlete, an actor and a class officer. His future wife, Geraldine, a cheerleader, was his high school sweetheart. They were married May 6, 1936, and moved to Kansas City in 1939.

After working at a Safeway Grocery and serving briefly during World War II, he worked at the Independence Post Office for 33 years where he provided services to the public at the stamp and parcel post window.

Kenneth raised his family and held positions of leadership at the Rockwood Baptist Church where he served as Sunday School Director for 15 years. He was an ordained deacon and, at various times, served as Recreation Director, Sunday School teacher and coach of a highly successful young women’s basketball team. He enjoyed bowling, boating, fishing and watching the Kansas City Royals. He was active on a recreational bowling team until the age of 91. He was currently a member of the First Baptist Church of Oak Grove.

Kenneth is survived by his wife of 73 years, Geraldine “Jerri” Woods, of the home; son, Michael Woods and wife, Emily – South Portland, ME; daughter, Barbara Durnin and husband, Thomas – Wentzville; three grandsons – Brad, Bryan and Bryce Durnin and their wives; two granddaughters, Janet Woods Maza and Carol Woods and their husbands; 10 great-grandchildren; niece, Linda Ward and husband, Steve; and two cousins, Lucille Hardison and Irma Jean Pickell, both of El Dorado Springs. His firstborn child, daughter, Saundra Sue, died as an infant.

Services were held Monday, March 29, at the First Baptist Church of Oak Grove. Interment under the direction of Royer Funeral Home, Oak Grove, was in the El Dorado Springs City Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to mental health associations, First Baptist Church of Oak Grove, the Salvation Army or Crossroads Hospice.