Woods, Mary Kathleen January 26, 1945 - May 2, 2025

Mary Kathleen Woods

January 26, 1945 – May 2, 2025

Mary Kathleen Woods passed away peacefully at home in Yonkers, New York, with her family by her side on May 2nd, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.  She was a beloved Wife, devoted mother, loving sister & friend.  She is survived by her son, daughter, sister, brothers, cousin, and many friends.

Mary, who usually went by the name Kathy, was born in Danbury, Connecticut on January 26th, 1945 to the late Stanley & Mary Gieralt.  She had one sister, Stephanie, and two brothers, Gary & Michael.  Also present during her childhood and throughout her life was her close cousin Patrica, who was like a second sister to her.

After high school she moved with her sister to The Bronx, New York and worked in Manhattan for many years. She met her husband, Edward Woods, in 1967 and they were married thereafter in 1968. In the early 1970’s Mary and Ed moved to Yonkers, New York, and from there they forged a love & partnership that lasted a lifetime and included two children, Jessica and Michael. They continued to live there for the rest of their lives.

Mary & her husband loved travel & music. They explored Europe on their honeymoon, finding their way through England, France, Germany and Italy.  They attended Woodstock in 1969, and over the years saw Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, James Taylor, and others whenever they were on tour.  Kathy was also a big fan of Joni Mitchell, Jethro Tull and cherished the music of the 1960s. Mary loved movies and TV shows, in particular British television, various cable TV series, news programs, and older shows such as Murder she Wrote and Perry Mason. Her favorite movie was Moonstruck. Watching movies or shows was a family tradition, especially during the holidays.

As a family, Kathy, Ed and their children had annual summer trips to the Jersey shore and New Hampshire Lakes Region.  In her later years Mary revisited Paris, a city she had always loved in particular, and had relaxing times on the beaches of Florida and the Dominican Republic with her family.

Mary loved crafting and often spent time making jewelry, ornaments, wreaths, photo albums, various needlework, and holiday decor.  She enjoyed cooking and had many delicious family recipes she would make for special occasions year after year. Mary encouraged and involved her children in these creative endeavors and has passed along her creative spirit to her children who continue to enjoy their own creative projects.

Cats were always a presence in Mary’s life, and she had many over her lifetime. She shared this love with her mother and would love to watch cat videos and spend time with her ‘grand kitties’ as her daughter has 6 cats. About 2 years ago Mary was so happy to welcome ‘Pumpkin’, an adopted orange tabby, into the family. Her presence is very much missed by her feline friends.

Kathy had an absolute passion for caring for those she loved. She always went the extra mile to give people a special little gift, send cards or spend time thinking about them and how to help them. Kathy put others first and her love for her children and family was significant. She was able to create a wonderful childhood for her children and holidays such as Halloween and Christmas were always filled with amazing creativity, decorations, and food.

During her cancer battle the past 6 years, she inspired those around her with her resolve and courage.  She still thought of others and held her kind spirit through the stress and hardships of the disease.  Her family is grateful she was able to pass peacefully at home with her children by her side.

Her family is devastated by her loss, but are honored to have known such an amazing woman.  Mary was able to pass on so much to those around her.  Her caring, selfless nature, her creativity, passions and sense of humor will continue to live on in those who knew and loved her.