James Louis (Toot) Woods

With heartfelt sympathy, we announce the earthly transition of Mr. James "Toot" Woods of Gadsden who went from labor to reward on Monday, June 13, 2022, at the age of 64.  Services to be announced.  We ask that you keep his family in your thoughts and prayers during this time of bereavement.

James (Toot) Louis Woods was born on August 30, 1957, to George Louis Woods and Georgia Ann Crocton in Gadsden, Alabama. James was known for his charismatic personality. He never met a stranger and was loved by all. 

He was big on having fun and just enjoying life with family and friends Bringing joy and laughter. He was big on caring for and supporting family and friends. Being the first born he was able to be a part of most of his father’s many business adventures at a very young age. At times he would run the family grocery store by himself. He also inherited his father’s vision in building Woods Transportation Inc. While attending Gadsden High School, James would drive his classmates on the bus to get them to school. James got his G.E.D. in October 1975. Most people were unaware that James had finished school because he would still show up to eat lunch with his classmates. James loved to cook, and people enjoyed his food. He enjoyed being on the stove and dreamed of having his own restaurant one day with his son and grandson.

James exhibits many entrepreneur traits. Having different jobs allowed him to display numerous talents and gifts. His biggest passion was driving. Driving buses for over thirty years, he delivered children to school and trips. He also drove Charter Buses on long trips carrying people to different events around the country. He drove limos for events and 18-wheelers. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle, but the best set of wheels for him was his white Nissan truck rolling on white wall tires thru the south! 

Music was one of his passions! James would be on the mic and speaker as DJ (Sweet Toot) around Alabama making grown folks and young kids dance. Michael Jackson, Barry White, and Toni Braxton were just some of the records he played. He was up on the current music as well. His ringtone was Adele's “Hello”.

James' greatest accomplishment was giving his life to his heavenly father, Jehovah God. He started studying with Larry Thomas and later got baptized March 14, 1987. James loved to be out in field service telling others about the bible promises. He adored being with his spiritual brothers and sisters. He valued all aspects of the ministry, cart witnessing, and letter writing.  James loved to be at the Kingdom Hall assisting at the door as people entered the Kingdom Hall. He would even give talks at the meetings. James loved to dress just like his father taught him. He knew that he would be back with his family again in Paradise! 

He joins his father, George Woods, siblings, grandparents, aunties, uncles, and many other family and friends that he waits to be reunited with in Paradise.

He leaves to cherish his memories his loving wife of 21 years,  Mrs. Felicia Woods the mother of his only son, James L. Woods Jr. (Big Boy);  his daughter, Sharelle N. Woods ( Daddy’s Girl) who is the daughter of  Sharon C. Jones, and Dr. Cynthia Toles (Mama Cynt)  all of Gadsden, Al;  his chosen daughter Mwandishi (Eric D) Cochrain-Goodwin; his only grandson, Brineal A. Rollins (Nealy, Lil Man); his mother, Georgia Ann Crocton Woods; his siblings, Joseph Anthony (Mammie Jo) Woods, Derrick Dewayne (Tammy) Woods, Richard David (Evelyn G) Woods all of Gadsden, AL.; extended children, Travis Woods, Jesha Woods, Tevin Woods; special cousin Hezey (Jenester) Crocton, and a host of other aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends that are too many to list.  James loved each in his own unique way.

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