Mrs. Samantha Joan Gipson Woods, age 80 of Decherd, Tennessee, daughter of the late Elbert Gipson and Harley Gilliam Gipson, passed peacefully at home from this life to her eternal home in Heaven on January 4, 2021. Joan was born on May 2, 1940 at home in Pelham, Tennessee.
She attended school in Franklin County, graduating from Franklin County High School in 1958. She furthered her education by attending business school in Winchester, Tennessee. Joan had a busy career, working as a secretary for various lawyers and large organizations such as TVA, AEDC, and the University of the South. She also enjoyed a long tenure at Franklin County Adult Activity Center, which catered to disabled adults.
She was married for 60 years to Walter “Pete” Woods. They met at a Huntland football game and dated for a year before marrying in Trenton, Georgia. Their marriage was blessed with three children: Camellia (Tim) Spears of Estill Springs, Derek (Susan) Woods of Murfreesboro, and Troy Woods of Decherd. They were further blessed by their four grandchildren: Leslie (Bryan) Wright of Estill Springs, Samantha (Mark) McCormick of Cowan, Heath and Grace Woods of Murfreesboro, and great-grandchildren: Chloe, Peyton, and Madeline Wright, and Audrey, Ayden, and Avery McCormick. Joan is also survived by siblings all of Decherd: Don (Peggy) Gipson, Betty (Alonzo) Partin, Gary (Susan) Gipson, sister-in-law Clarice Gipson, wife of Joan’s brother Stanley Gipson who preceded her in death. Joan is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
Joan professed her faith in Jesus Christ at an early age and went on to bless many congregations with her beautiful singing voice. She recorded a professional CD of favorite hymns, which has become a treasure to her family to hear her sing again.
Moore-Cortner Funeral Home, Winchester, Tennessee is hosting Joan’s services on Friday, January 8, 2021. Visitation will be from 12-2 and funeral services begin at 2:00. Mrs. Annette King of Huntland, Tennessee will officiate with music provided by Joan’s album of hymns. Burial will follow in Moore Cemetery, Huntland, Tennessee. Pallbearers: Mickey Gipson, Tony Gipson, Lon Partin, Bryan Wright, Mark McCormick, and Heath Woods.
Moore-Cortner Funeral Home, 300 First Ave NW, Winchester, TN 37398, (931)-967-2222
