Nadine Reed Woods

Nadine Woods, 94, passed away suddenly, but peacefully on Saturday, February 2, 2019, at Kavanagh House in Des Moines. She had lived independently in her own home until that morning. Nadine was born January 6, 1925, in Corvuso, MN, to Roland and Frieda Reed. She grew up in Red Rock, IA, attending Red Rock rural school and graduating from Monroe High School. Nadine earned a teaching certificate, and went on to teach in a one-room school in the Red Rock area in the early 1940s. She worked as a telephone operator during WWII, and as an Accounting Technician for the State of Iowa’s Surplus Property Dept. She was an active member of First Baptist Church, Drake Dames, Chapter MA PEO, and the Des Moines Garden Club. As a volunteer, she spent many hours at the Alzheimer’s Association, Hospice of Central Iowa, First Baptist Church and wherever she felt she was needed. Nadine enjoyed gardening and especially her roses. She loved traveling throughout the world with Elderhostel (Road Scholar) and as the wife of a Fulbright Scholar. She was comforted by reading great books, and being surrounded by her loving pets. Spending time with her family and special “grandchildren” brought her joy and laughter. After retirement, her happiest times were living with Joe on their Runnels acreage. Up to the end, she was very aware of events happening around the world and could hold her own in discussions!

Left to cherish her generous spirit are her daughter Miriam Woods, Urbandale, son John Woods, Des Moines, nieces and nephews, cousins, the extended Heuermann family, and many friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Professor Joe Woods, her parents, two sisters Lois McCully and Dorothy Reed, two brothers Gene Reed and Ernie Reed and many dear friends, who she considered part of her family.

A memorial service followed by a lunch will be held at First Baptist Church, 8250 NW 52nd Ave, Johnston, IA, 50131, on Saturday, March 23rd at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Glendale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to her favorite causes: Iowa Public Television, Animal Rescue League of Iowa, or a charity that’s dear to your heart. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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