Obituary of Harold David Woods

Harold D. Woods Harold was born in Afton, NY on Nov. 27, 1943. He passed on Dec. 19, 2022. He was the fifth and youngest child of Lester D. Woods and Gertrude I. Hinman. He grew up on the extended-family farm in Oxford, NY. When Harold was growing up, the family farm was owned by his father and his father's 2 brothers. They all lived together, with their 3 families, in one big house. It was a continuous hub of activity, with frequent visits from all the relatives and friends. The cousins grew up together like brothers and sisters, and the next generation knew each other well, as they would meet on the farm to work and play. Harold was always there, working hard and playing with the younger generation. Sadly, that chapter closed, when in the 1980's the banks foreclosed on family farms all across America. This dissolution of farms was triggered by artificially fixed milk prices and the rising interest rates. Harold was saddened by the loss of the farm. He grieved deeply but was able to make a new path for himself. He was an incredibly hard worker, whatever job he did, he gave 120%. He later worked for the DeVries Farm and then for Hansmann's Mills, until his "retirement". During his "retirement" he sawed and split 1000's of tons of firewood, keeping families in the surrounding area warm for many winters. He was still sawing and splitting firewood up until June of 2022. Harold had many interests, which he shared with his wife Donna, who was always at his side. He loved wrestling, local high school basketball, canoe races and tractor pulls. He especially loved music; it was a real passion. He wanted to learn to play the banjo but said he couldn't get the hang of it. Now he can work on that banjo playing on the other side of the veil, with his 2 uncles who played fiddle and guitar at square dances in the 1920's. He and Donna's love of Country and Bluegrass music lead them to regularly attend the local bluegrass jam sessions and the Bainbridge Town Hall music shows. He was so committed to music that he would arrive 1 to 2 hours prior to a show starting and watch the band warm up and do a sound check. He would joke that he would get 2 shows for the price of one. Some of the highlights of their musical quest were the few trips they took to Branson Missouri. He and Donna really enjoyed themselves there. He was also deeply spiritual, believing in his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was a devoted member of the Pentacostal Church in Sidney, NY, a member for 40 years. Harold was always helping others; we will never know the extent, as he was always quietly lending his time and effort. The world is truly a better place for him having been here. In his final months of life he moved to his daughter's home, where he was lovingly cared for by his wife and his daughter Lisa. They would like to thank Chenango County Hospice for their guidance and support during this difficult time. On Jan 3, 1965 at the Union Valley Church in Bainbridge, Harold married his childhood friend, Donna L Gardner. They have spent 57 devoted years to each other. They have 2 children, Lisa A Woods Shields and Bryan K Woods. He is survived by: his wife Donna, children Lisa and Bryan, grandchildren Ashley, Amber and Parker and great grandchildren: Cali and Charli, and also his little, fluffy fur-baby, Lucy. He also has a large extended family who are extremely fond of him. He is predeceased by his parents and his siblings: Dorothy, Marjorie, Hazel and Ivan. Harold was a man of humble attitude and means, always serving. The family asks for those who would like to, please consider donating to the funeral costs in lieu of flowers. No amount would be considered too small. Please come, regardless of a donation, and celebrate the life of Harold. Donations may be sent in care of Lisa Woods Shields to 5 Johnson Street, Bainbridge, NY 13733. Friends may call from 3:00-5:00pm on Thursday, December 22, 2022 at C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, 21 Main St. Sidney, NY 13838. A funeral service will be held at 3:00pm on Friday, December 23rd at Full Life Church, Plankenhorn Road, Sidney. Burial in Glenwood Cemetery, Afton, will be held in the spring. Share condolences and memories with the family online at www.landersfh.com. Arrangements are under the direction of C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, Sidney.