Martha Ellen "Marty" Woods

On Monday, August 25, 2025, in Lufkin, Texas, Martha Ellen “Marty” Woods was called home to her eternal rest. Known to many as Marty, Mom, and Granny, she faced life’s hardships with courage and grace and remained strong until her very last breath. Though her battle was long, her faith never wavered, and now she is fully at peace in the arms of her Savior.

Born to Ida Faye McCauley and Rayburn Dorgan, Marty grew up in East Texas where faith, family, and hard work shaped every part of who she became. She was one of many siblings, and the love she shared with her brothers and sisters was a lifelong source of strength and comfort. She also treasured her role as an aunt, always showing up with an open heart, a listening ear, and a deep, steadfast love for her nieces and nephews.

Marty carried with her the gift of lifelong friendships formed in her school years. These women became sisters of the heart, walking beside her through every season of life. Together they shared laughter, tears, and countless memories, building bonds that time and distance could never break.

She was a devoted mother to Brian Woods and Melony Woods, the children she shared with Mavin Elray Woods. While their 45-year marriage came to an end, their lasting bond was marked by mutual respect and unwavering love for their children and grandchildren. She was a proud grandmother to Wade Woods, Eric Woods, Austin Woods, Kate (Woods) Davis, Tristan Hartsfield, and Paige Woods, and a delighted great-grandmother of six precious great-grandbabies. She was their biggest cheerleader at the baseball field, the basketball court, and in the ups and downs of life.

Marty’s work ethic was unmatched. She spent many years with Brookshire Brothers, where her dedication, determination, and grit left a lasting impression on coworkers and customers alike.

She also knew how to savor life’s simple joys. She treasured her late-night cup of coffee, cheering on her Kansas City Chiefs, never missing a chance to root for Patrick Mahomes, and found endless fun in playing the slot machines. Win or lose, she played with a smile, always certain the next spin would be the big one.

But above all, Marty will be remembered for the love she so freely gave. She gave more than she had, gave without question, and never stopped showing up for the people around her. She was steady when life felt shaky, tough when strength was needed, and tender when hearts were hurting. To know her was to feel seen, valued, and loved.

Her life was her testimony, her love was her gift, and her legacy lives on in her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews, coworkers, and countless friends who were blessed to know her.

May her coffee always be hot, her slots always be lucky, and her Chiefs always be winning in heaven.

The Celebration of Life will be held on September 6th, 2025, at 1:30 PM at Standpipe Coffee House, 123 S First St, Lufkin, TX 75901.