Rhea Helen (Witty) Woods

In Loving Memory of
Rhea Helen Woods
May 19, 1931 - August 14, 2024

It is with profound sadness that the family announces the passing of Rhea Helen Woods (nee Witty) on Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at the Manitoulin Health Centre, Mindemoya in her 94th year. "Rhea" as she was commonly known to all, was an avid gardener, curler, walker and most importantly, a friend to all who knew her. She enjoyed visits with family and friends, tending to her flowers and yard work, many daily walks around town and helping others in need. Until recent years and health issues, she would be seen on the streets two or three times a day for her regular strolls, to which few could keep to her pace.
Rhea worked alongside her husband, Marv, at the family restaurant and raised their three children at the same time. In 1970, along with her husband, she opened the well known business, M&R Jewellry in Gore Bay which still operates today. Her most precious assets were her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She always looked forward to their visits and hearing of their activities and accomplishments.
Rhea, known to many as Granny or GG Grunt was born on May 19, 1931, the youngest child of John (Ray) and Mary (Campbell) Witty of Mills Township and later the 7th Line in Gordon Township. Rhea moved to Gore Bay in the late 1940s and on September 12, 1950, married Marvin Woods. In 1953 they moved to 31 Hall Street where she still lived until the day before entering the hospital.
Rhea is survived by her son James (Jim) (Vanesa Jo) and their children, Beverly (Trevor), Patti Jo (Christopher Molnar) and Deborah (Dennis McCurdy), Mary Lou Bock (Allan) and their daughters Melanie (Neil) Farrington, Michelle Bock (Justin Girardi), and Joann Woods (Bill, predeceased) and their children Dustin (Jen), Devin (Missy) and Daylin (Travis) Orford. More than anything, Rhea adored her great grandchildren Gabriel, Alex, Cody and Autumn, Landin and Parker, Kowan and Greyson, Seth, Stevy and Brantley. A big part in Rhea's life was her nieces and nephews, two of whom she considered daughters, Nancy Woestenenk (John) and Margie Graham (Bruce).
She was predeceased by her parents John and Mary Witty, siblings Jean (Burley) Morrell, Harry (Stella), Alex (Marg) and 26 brother and sisters in law.
At Rhea's request, there will be no funeral service. A graveside service will take place at 11:00am on Tuesday, August 20, 2024 at the Gordon/Barrie Island Cemetery. a luncheon will follow at the Gore Bay United Church Robinson Hall. If so desired, donations in Rhea's memory can be made to the Manitoulin Health Centre Mindemoya Site, The Gore Bay Medical Centre, Gore Bay United Church (UCW) or charity of your choice.
Arrangements entrusted to Simpson Funeral Home, Gore Bay.
The family would like to extend their gratitude for the care Mom received. Dr McRae and Hamilton and their team from Gore Bay Medical Center for their years of support and care. Dr. Reade and the health team at MHC Mindemoya, who provided care and compassion to both Mom and our family. Thank you to the PSW team, in particular Beth and Stacey for their care and kindness.

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