Del Woods, age 81, passed away on December 3 at his home in Morganton. Del was born in Liberal, Kansas on Dec. 5, 1932, to Myrtle Pound Woods and Noel Austin Woods, a Baptist minister. Del completed his doctorate in biochemistry at the University of Missouri and conducted ophthalmology research for the Emory Eye Center at Emory University School of Medicine for 35 years. While in Atlanta, he was active in Oakhurst Baptist Church.

In 1998 Del married Barbara Jean Ferer and they moved to the north Georgia mountains. As a scientist, Del was passionate about the environment and supported many environmental causes. He planned and constructed an earth-sheltered dome home, where he lived with Barbara until his passing. Del also continued to pursue his interest in the use of sound and light in healing. He was an active member of Cherry Log Christian Church and helped found the Gilmer County Food Bank, exemplifying his giving and gentle spirit.

Del will be greatly missed by his many friends and loving family, including his beloved wife Barbara Ferer; his sons Russell Woods, and Reuel David Woods and his wife Sharon; grandchildren Henry, Jessica and Sarah; sisters Mildred Summers and husband Wayne, Winona Gasswint and husband Clay; and brother Lee Woods and wife Gay. The family is grateful for Cherry Log Christian Church and Feed Fannin families as well as our devoted neighbors for their assistance during Del’s time of transition.

A memorial service will be held Dec. 20, 11 a.m. at Cherry Log Christian Church with a reception following. The family asks that memorial gifts in honor of Del’s life be made to Cherry Log Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), P.O. Box 289, Cherry Log, GA, 30522; Feed Fannin, P.O. Box 1085, Blue Ridge, GA, 30513; Georgia Mountains Hospice, 70 Caring Way, Jasper, GA, 30143.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.loganfuneralhome.com