Carolyn Jean Woods of Oelwein, 89, passed away on Thursday May 7, 2026, at Oelwein Health Care Center. Visitation was held from 4-7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12, at the Geilenfeld-Buehner Funeral Home of Oelwein. Funeral services began at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 13, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Oelwein, Iowa. Interment was in Woodlawn Cemetery at Oelwein. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be directed to the McGregor Public Library Foundation, PO Box 398, McGregor, IA 52157 and the Oelwein Public Library Foundation, 201 East Charles Street, Oelwein, IA 50662.
Carolyn Jean Woods passed away peacefully, surrounded by her devoted family, on May 7, 2026, at the age of 89.
Born on Oct. 20, 1936, in the close-knit town of Winthrop, Carolyn was the cherished daughter of Carl Doran, Imogene Nodurft, and stepfather Dale Nodurft.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas “Tom” Woods, with whom she shared 60 years of love, laughter, and unwavering partnership. Together, they built a life centered around family, enduring friendships, summers on the Mississippi River, and winters spent in Florida with cherished lifelong friends. Their marriage was a beautiful example of devotion and grace through every season of life. Carolyn was also preceded in death by her son, Thomas “Tommy” Woods; her son-in-law, Keith Thompson; and her brothers, James Doran, Kent Doran, and Graydon Nodurft, all of whom she held close in her heart.
She leaves behind her loving daughters: Janna Hamilton (Jack), Jody Thompson, and Jill Kelly (Steve Wenner). Her spirit and wisdom will continue to live on through her treasured grandchildren: Courtney Woods (Jason Wescott), Rachel Woods, Jensen Kelly, Thomas Kelly, Elizabeth Thompson (Drew Krinsky), and Olivia Thompson. Carolyn was also blessed with great-grandchildren Brady Fettkether, Drakesyn Woods, and Christian Watermann, who brought immense joy to her life. She is also survived by her brother, Dr. Robert Doran (Shirley), along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends who held a special place in her heart.
Carolyn lived a life filled with creativity, warmth, style, and devotion to those she loved most. A gifted interior designer, she possessed a remarkable eye for beauty that transformed not only homes but also the lives of the people welcomed into them.
Her creativity could be seen in every room she touched, every gathering she hosted, and every thoughtful detail she lovingly arranged.
She was also an avid gardener whose flowers were admired by all who visited her home. Her gardens reflected the same beauty, care, and creativity that she brought to every part of her life, blooming season after season. She was a dedicated member of the Terrace Hill Society for more than 20 years and took great pride in supporting the preservation of history, beauty, and community.
Above all, Carolyn was a devoted mother and grandmother who created a home filled with love and encouragement. Her children and grandchildren will forever carry the lessons she taught through her strength, elegance, and creativity.
Carolyn leaves memories shared around family tables, stories told in beautifully decorated rooms, holidays made magical, friendships treasured for decades, and a life that inspired others to find beauty in the world around them. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.
