Gary Kent Woods

Gary Kent Woods, a devoted husband, father, and educator, passed away peacefully surrounded by family, at the age of 76 on Friday, August 22, 2025, in Springfield, Illinois. He was born on January 27, 1949, in Springfield, to Jesse and Gladys Nolting Woods. Gary married Linda Sue Bloome on November 27, 1971.

Gary graduated from Lanphier High School in 1967 and earned his bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Western Illinois University in 1971. He furthered his education by obtaining two master's degrees in mathematics and educational administration and leadership from the University of Illinois.

Gary's career spans 42 years at Pittsfield High School, where he positively impacted countless lives as a teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent. His leadership extended beyond the school halls, as he served as the president of the Rotary and was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow, a true reflection of his dedication to service.

Gary will be missed by his wife, Linda, and their four children: Gregory (Sarah) Woods of Carrollton, Illinois; Tadd (Lisa Sevcik) Woods of Highlands Ranch, Colorado; Megan Woods of Springfield, Illinois; and Kendra (Brett Bender) Woods of Springfield. He is also survived by his sister, Linda Schildman; eight grandchildren, Melanie (Nolan Dean) Woods, Hannah and Lucas Wagoner; Emily, Nicole, and Jonathan Morris; and Harrison and Simon Bender; and one great-grandson, Reggie Dean; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Ira James Collins.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm, Thursday, August 28, 2025 at Bramley Funeral Home, 150 Reichert Road, in Divernon. Funeral service will be Friday, August 29, 2025 at 11:00 am at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Brush Creek Cemetery in Divernon.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests school backpacks and supplies.   Memorial contributions can be made to the Pike County Rotary or Pikeland Snack Pack. Online condolences may be left at www.bramleyfh.com. Arrangements are under the care of Bramley Funeral Home.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Gary Kent Woods, please visit our Tree Store.