Obituary

Barbara A Woods
September 29, 1953 - January 19, 2025

Barbara A Woods

Barbara A Woods
Sep 29, 1953 - Jan 19, 2025

Barbara A Woods
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Dr. Barbara Woods' Obituary

Dr. Barbara Ann Woods was born to Amelia Grubbs on September 29, 1953 in Alexander City, Alabama. She was nurtured in this rural community and molded by her loving family, sisters, and neighbors. She had a special relationship with her grandfather, who catalyzed her love of gardening and encouraged her to openly speak her mind. Early in life, Barbara learned how to speak her truth yet understood that others also had perspectives. She had enough humility to know that others may see things differently than she did. Her journey in faith also began in her youth. She accepted Christ as her Lord and her Savior as a child and was baptized at Flint Hill Baptist Church in Alexander City.

Barbara excelled in Alexander City schools and graduated from Benjamin Russell High School in 1971. Following guidance from a high school teacher, Barbara majored in Home Economics Education after graduating from high school and earned her bachelor's and master's degrees from Alabama A&M University in 1975 and 1976, respectively. Barbara was inducted into Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. through the Delta Delta Chapter at Alabama A&M University on March 2, 1974.

As shared in her Extension and Outreach Oral History Project Interview, (1) her experience at Alabama A&M and being in community with faculty and staff of varying backgrounds inspired her. She envisioned the possibilities of being an exemplary professional woman of color. Barbara then worked for three years in Alabama Extension as a County Home Economist in Muscle Shoals. This career opportunity cultivated her philosophy about serving communities. Her motto was: "Go where the people are. Work with them where they are and help them to get where they want to be." This job also sparked her interest to learn more about evaluation and impact. She decided to pursue a doctorate and was admitted to the top-ranked, nationally recognized program of Family and Consumer Sciences/Home Economics Teacher Education at Iowa State University in 1978 and specialized in program evaluation.

While pursuing her doctorate in Iowa, Barbara began serving the community to expand access and opportunities for women, children, and people of color. Barbara overcame unsolicited questions and uncomfortable stares from locals by building a network of supportive professors, peers, congregants at First Baptist Church in Ames, and the Des Moines Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She actively participated on the YWCA Board and collaborated to conduct a university climate audit, schedule speakers, offer safe meeting spaces, empower girls, and host cultural celebrations. She championed a more welcoming climate in Iowa while completing her doctoral requirements. She earned her Ph.D. in 1981.

These educational and professional experiences laid the foundation for a remarkable career in Extension and Outreach that spanned 42 years at Iowa State University. She held various positions including Assistant to the Vice Provost of Iowa State University Extension and Special Projects Manager. Over four decades, Barbara made significant and enduring contributions to Extension and Outreach in all 99 Iowa counties. Notably, Barbara led the team that created computer networks in 107 offices and connected these offices to a wider network on campus in Ames; these technological advancements positioned Iowa State University Extension as a national leader for almost a decade. Barbara was also the principal investigator for a nationally recognized, federally funded Children, Youth, and Families at Risk Grant Program (CYFAR), which employed evidence-based programs with 11-13-year-olds and their families to increase positive outcomes for at-risk populations in Iowa and other states. Additionally, Barbara worked closely with staff across the state to support precise data reporting and outcomes. She also collaborated to develop meaningful educational materials to "give voice to people and ideas that were not often included" in her words. Her efforts have ameliorated challenges underserved Iowans experience in Extension and Outreach and improved how Iowans are engaged through grants, programs, and services, which in turn, improves their quality of life.

Barbara shared lessons learned through local, state, national, and international presentations and publications and Extension resources. She was an active member and leader in professional associations like the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences and the National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences. Barbara led countless committees, task forces, and initiatives. She co-founded the Black Faculty and Staff Association, which formalized a social network that had been meeting to offer support, safe space, and professional development to individuals in the community. While leading impactful work as a professional, Barbara was a great team member. In meetings, Barbara's eyes were a window into her thoughts about the conversation. One could count on her direct, candid perspective about any given topic.

Without question, Barbara invested much of her career investing in the lives of students, faculty, and staff to promote their success at Iowa State University. She supported generations of professionals and students in the 47 years she lived in Ames and was an advisor to student groups for decades (e.g., Phi Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. at Iowa State University and Drake University, Black Graduate Student Association). She took the time to understand their goals and needs and then offered a beacon of light forward. Barbara was always willing to take a walk, meet on a bench near beautiful landscapes, share a meal, or travel to an event in her Camaro to show her support. If you were lucky, she prepared a meal or a dessert for you to lift your spirits.

Ever committed to supporting others from all backgrounds and advancing the mission of Extension and Outreach, Barbara was honored with numerous university awards including the 2011 Iowa State University Award for Distinguished Service, the 2016 MLK Advancing One Community Award, the 2017 Career Achievement in Outreach, the 2018 Woman Impacting Iowa State, the 2019 ISU Inclusive Excellence Award, and the 2021 ISUβ€―R.K. Blissβ€―Extensionβ€―Award. Her impact across the state was recognized with a 2016 American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences - Iowa Affiliate Distinguished Service Award. The American Evaluation Association also bestowed a national award to her for Excellence in Extension Evaluation Training in 2013. She was most recently inducted into the Iowa African American Hall of Fame in 2024.

This award-winning professional was just as engaged on campus as she was off campus. Her longest affiliation was with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. In September 2024, she was honored for her remarkable 50 years of steadfast service and commitment to the sorority. For over half of a century, there were milestones in her enduring journey of service. For example, she was consistently a financial member. In her early 20s, Barbara had the unique honor of hosting then-Regional Director Yvonne Kennedy (who later served as the 19th National President), a role that was uncommon for someone so young to assume, highlighting her exceptional leadership potential. Barbara dutifully served as Chapter President from 1986 to 1988, held officer and committee roles, and expanded membership of the organization by being involved in intake processes. She led efforts to build a Habitat Home in Des Moines to support the sorority's partnership with Habitat for Humanity and build 22 homes under the leadership of the 20th National President, Bertha Maxwell Roddey. Throughout her 50 years of membership, Barbara demonstrated unparalleled dedication to Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., leaving an indelible mark on the organization.

Barbara was also a faithful member at First Baptist Church in Ames for 45 years. Over the years, she visited the sick and shut-in, welcomed students and newcomers, and represented the church in local initiatives such as AMOS and Ames Ecumenical Housing Board of Directors. Her dedication to Habitat for Humanity was so admirable that funds were given to build a Habitat Home in Ames in Barbara's honor. She traveled across the U.S., Puerto Rico (a U.S. Territory), and Nicaragua frequently on trips to serve with a Baptist medical mission that worked in under resourced communities and remote villages. Barbara served on American Baptist regional committees and was board chair of American Baptist Homes of the Midwest, which provided senior housing in six Midwestern states. At the time of her passing, she was deacon chair, social committee chair, and church moderator. Beyond her official roles, Barbara was a source of joy and inspiration in the congregation.

A founding member of Ames chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), Barbara joined 99 other area residents to create this network. For more than three decades, she dedicated her talent and time to assisting with the annual Freedom Fund Banquet, after-school tutoring program, and the Education Committee. She served as Secretary and was an active volunteer with NAACP events. For her efforts, she earned the NAACP Ames Branch Humanitarian Award in 2005.

Barbara was also enthusiastic about financial literacy. In 1993, she partnered with 11 sorority sisters to create Looking for 12 Investment Club. This group continues today. The portfolio has grown tremendously over 32 years. Club discussions focus on education, growing the stock portfolio, and ensuring the stock selections reflect corporations with exemplary ethical footprints in their business transactions.

An active member of the Rotary Club of Ames, Barbara joined the group on December 12, 1995. She modeled the club's motto Service Above Self for 29 years. Though she served on club committees and regularly attended meetings, her passion was supporting special initiatives like Ames Miracle League, planting trees and shrubs in the Tedesco Learning Corridor, and cleaning up parks with fellow Rotarians.

In addition, Barbara was involved in other boards for shorter terms including Northcrest Inc. Board of Directors, Story County Extension Council, Ames Human Relations Commission, United Way of Story County, and American Red Cross-Story County chapter. Barbara brought her whole self to these organizations, offering her time and being a thoughtful decision-maker to influence the quality of life for area residents.

In retirement, she had more time to support community initiatives. A master gardener, she also spent more time in her yard and home tending to her vast array of plants and flowers. She traveled often and delighted in quality time with her family and friends.

Barbara peacefully transitioned on Sunday, January 19, 2025 at Israel Family Hospice House in Ames, an area resource that she helped make a reality. As part of her service to the Mary Greeley Medical Center Foundation Board of Directors from 1999 to 2005, Barbara actively fundraised as part of the Dignity in Caring: Completing the Vision campaign. Though she died at 71 years of age, less than two years into a well-earned retirement, she completed her personal mission of "leaving the community better than I found it."

Left to cherish Barbara's memory are sister Mary Alice, nieces Natalie and Miranda, grandnieces Amelia and Kennedi, cousin Harrison, a host of nieces and nephews, and special friends Mary Lois Brooks and Oscar Mary Norman. She was predeceased by her mother, her sister Eula, and her grandparents George Richard and Eula Dave Brown.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Barbara's life and legacy in Iowa and Alabama. In Ames, IA, the community may gather for a visitation on Thursday, January 23 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at Grandon Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 414 Lincoln Way, Ames, IA 50010. A celebration of life will take place on Friday, January 24 at 11:00am at First Baptist Church, 200 Lynn Ave, Ames, IA 50014. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Omega Omega service will occur at 9:00am at the church. The family will receive friends after the service in the church basement.

In Alexander City, AL, a visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 29 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at Wright's Funeral Home, 131 Mason Street, Alexander City, Alabama 35010. (2) A homegoing service will be held on Thursday, January 30 at 2:00pm at Wright's Funeral Home. Barbara's final resting place will be Flint Hill Baptist Church Cemetery.

Though Barbara was a master gardener and loved flowers and plants, know that Barbara would prefer a more lasting tribute to her memory in lieu of these arrangements. The family encourages donations to area organizations that were special to Barbara in her memory, such as Human Sciences Extension and Outreach, (3) Habitat for Humanity of Central Iowa (4), Reiman Gardens (5), Brunnier Art Museum (6), and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.'s Research and Educational Foundation (7).

The family wishes to thank the health care teams at McFarland Clinic, Mary Greeley Medical Center, Mercy One Hospital Des Moines, and Northcrest Health Center for their care and support of Barbara in recent months.

Online condolences may be directed to www.grandonfuneralandcremationcare.com

1. iastate.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1725/collection_resources/55901/file/130169
2. www.wrightsfuneralservice.com/
3. www.foundation.iastate.edu/Woods
4. www.habitat.org/ia/ames/habitat-humanity-central-iowa
5. reimangardens.com/
6. www.museums.iastate.edu/visit/brunnier-art-museum
7. app.etapestry.com/cart/DeltaFoundationandEducational/default/category.php?ref=1570.0.195008544

Teresa Carter McDonald on Jan 27, 2025

Teresa Carter McDonald on Jan 27, 2025

Teresa Carter McDonald on Jan 27, 2025

Teresa Carter McDonald on Jan 27, 2025

Teresa Carter McDonald on Jan 27, 2025

Teresa Carter McDonald on Jan 27, 2025

I will miss my friend, soror (sister), classmate, co-worker!!! It will be hard adjusting to the mornings, without the cheerful wake-up / welfare calls!!! Striving to be able to meet you on the other side (hopefully in one of God’s Flower Gardens)!!! πŸ™πŸ½β™₯οΈπŸ”ΊπŸ’πŸ˜‡

Teresa Carter McDonald on Jan 27, 2025

I will miss my friend, soror (sister), classmate, co-worker!!! It will be hard adjusting to the mornings, without the cheerful wake-up / welfare calls!!! Striving to be able to meet you on the other side (hopefully in one of God’s Flower Gardens)!!! πŸ™πŸ½β™₯οΈπŸ”ΊπŸ’πŸ˜‡

Teresa Carter McDonald on Jan 27, 2025

I will miss my friend, soror (sister), classmate, co-worker!!! It will be hard adjusting to the mornings, without the cheerful wake-up / welfare calls!!! Striving to be able to meet you on the other side (hopefully in one of God’s Flower Gardens)!!! πŸ™πŸ½β™₯οΈπŸ”ΊπŸ’πŸ˜‡

Teresa Carter McDonald on Jan 27, 2025

I will miss my friend, soror (sister), classmate, co-worker!!! It will be hard adjusting to the mornings, without the cheerful wake-up / welfare calls!!! Striving to be able to meet you on the other side (hopefully in one of God’s Flower Gardens)!!! πŸ™πŸ½β™₯οΈπŸ”ΊπŸ’πŸ˜‡

Teresa Carter McDonald on Jan 27, 2025

I will miss my friend, soror (sister), classmate, co-worker!!! It will be hard adjusting to the mornings, without the cheerful wake-up / welfare calls!!! Striving to be able to meet you on the other side (hopefully in one of God’s Flower Gardens)!!! πŸ™πŸ½β™₯οΈπŸ”ΊπŸ’πŸ˜‡

Teresa Carter McDonald on Jan 27, 2025

I will miss my friend, soror (sister), classmate, co-worker!!! It will be hard adjusting to the mornings, without the cheerful wake-up / welfare calls!!! Striving to be able to meet you on the other side (hopefully in one of God’s Flower Gardens)!!! πŸ™πŸ½β™₯οΈπŸ”ΊπŸ’πŸ˜‡

Teresa Carter McDonald on Jan 27, 2025

I will miss my friend, soror (sister), classmate, co-worker!!! It will be hard adjusting to the mornings, without the cheerful wake-up / welfare calls!!! Striving to be able to meet you on the other side (hopefully in one of God’s Flower Gardens)!!! πŸ™πŸ½β™₯οΈπŸ”ΊπŸ’πŸ˜‡

Teresa Carter McDonald on Jan 27, 2025

I will miss my friend, soror (sister), classmate, co-worker!!! It will be hard adjusting to the mornings, without the cheerful wake-up / welfare calls!!! Striving to be able to meet you on the other side (hopefully in one of God’s Flower Gardens)!!! πŸ™πŸ½β™₯οΈπŸ”ΊπŸ’πŸ˜‡

Sharon Owens on Jan 27, 2025

Soror Woods with her Delta Delta Line Sisters. Delta Sigma Theta

Judy Dittmar on Jan 27, 2025

I started with Extension in western Iowa 6 years ago, and remember meeting Dr. Woods when I came to Ames for orientation. I thought what a cool person she would be to get to know, however, I never had the opportunity. From all I am reading, she was the real deal and so loved.

Paula Santos on Jan 25, 2025

I first met Barbara when we were in graduate school together at Iowa State University in the fall of 1978. She was a role model to me because she was so independent, wise, and assertive. Although we had lost touch for many decades, fortunately two years ago she and I were reconnected through our mutual friend Debra Cauthen. Over the past two years Barbara and I would regularly communicate via phone and Facebook. I am so blessed to have known Barbara, and I am sad that she is no longer here on Earth. However, one day I hope to reconnect with her in heaven. May Barbara rest in peace and love eternally. Lastly, I send my heartfelt thoughts, condolences, and prayers to her sister Mary Alice and her family.

Glenda Stormes-Bice on Jan 25, 2025

I just met Barbara at the last AMOS fundraiser in November when she blew in with a handful of certificates for auction donations and a boat load of help. She was delightful and I was looking forward to chatting after the fact to wrap things up and plan for next year. I am saddened by the loss of this fabulous woman who touched me so much even in the few brief hours that we were working together. I now see that she has been touching people for years and there is little doubt her short time on earth has touched THOUSANDS in ways that will live on. What a miraculous human being who will be terribly missed.

I know we are all just walking each other home and even tho I only had a few brief steps with Barbara, I am sure, like anyone who met her, I will be changed forever and never forget her.

Much peace and blessings to the family reading this. And Barbara, I can see you smiling. I hope we can build on what you did here.

Glenda Stormes-Bice

Anirudh Naig on Jan 24, 2025

Barb was such an amazing person! She was an inspiration for all, especially women of color.
We will miss her always!
However, I am sharing with you the peanut brittle recipe she shared with me in 2014. Our department chair had purchased it in an auction. It was so tasty! I asked her for the recipe and Barb was kind to share the recipe.

"This is the Gurley Peanut Company recipe.

Microware Peanut Brittle

1 1/2 cups of raw peanuts (Gurley raw peanuts)*
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup corn syrup (light colored)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon vanilla flavoring
1 teaspoon baking soda

Mix peanuts, sugar, syrup, and salt in a large microwarve-safe bowl; cook 6-7 minutes on high. Mixture should be bubbling and peanuts browned. Quickly stir in butter and vanilla flavoring. Cook 2-3 minutes longer. Remove and add baking soda and stir quickly just until mixture is foamy. Pour immediately onto greased cookie sheet and spread to desired thickness. Let cool and break up.

NOTE: Some time adjustment may have to be made depending on your microwave.

* I have used different brands of raw peanuts. They have worked in the recipe.

Barbara"

Shane Butler on Jan 24, 2025

Gone way too soon!πŸ™πŸΎπŸ™πŸΎβ€οΈ

Jacqueline Pryor on Jan 23, 2025

I am saddened to learn of Barbara's her transition. During my time at Iowa State, she ALWAYS had words of wisdom for me and I will always cherish our talks. Rest in peace dear friend πŸ•ŠοΈ

Sue Lamont on Jan 23, 2025

Barbara will be sorely missed. She contributed so much to ISU, Extension, and the Ames community. Her warmth, kindness, and willingness to lend a hand wherever and whenever needed was legendary.

Devo Schlagel on Jan 23, 2025

I met Barbara through the on-line Mid-Morning Mindfulness practices ISU has on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. I loved how she would share what was blooming and where on campus during warm months. I did not meet her in person but even over the Zoom call she exuded such warmth and zeal for life. What a beautiful lady.

Lizzoofames@gmail.com on Jan 23, 2025

It was a privilege and honor to know Barbara and see all she contributed to our community .I got to enjoy many tasty dishes and desserts at family gatherings! Many a holiday or Christmas. LizGrafton-Robertson

Joyce Hagley on Jan 23, 2025

I was on a committee with Barbara when I worked in the College of Human Sciences. She was so kind. I also would see her outside of work and we would converse and it was a gentle reminder to me that some people just are meant to be in this world for a reason. She brought me joy. I will miss running into her around town. It is a loss.

Joyce Hagley

Traci Stewart on Jan 23, 2025

I got the honor to work with Barbara briefly. She was a ray of sunshine in my world. I remember when she got the car! She will be truly missed and honored. Our lives are better for have knowing her.

Keith Swanson on Jan 23, 2025

Barbara was a treasure. I had the pleasure of having an office near hers for several years. We would often leave work at the same time and share some time talking as we walked to our cars. No matter how bad my day, Barbara always got me to smile. She will be missed by many.

Angel Dunlap on Jan 23, 2025

Barbara was a sweet person. Loved assisting others. I first met her when our mentor Dr. Richardson told me to go by Barbara's office FIRST THING when I get to Iowa State University's campus. I too earned my PhD in Family and Consumer Sciences from ISU. Often times I would go by her office as she would give me more encouragement to finish the degree. She loved Iowa State University. And all that it offered students from southern Alabama. I will never forget her advise and encouraging words.
Rest easy Barbara. Your work here is doneπŸ™Œ
Dr. DunlapπŸ˜‡

Sarah Francis on Jan 22, 2025

Barbara and I connected over our southern roots and the fact that neither of us fit the southern belle persona. I am so grateful for having the opportunity to be her friend and colleague. She was a wonderful mentor who told you the truth, helped you work through challenges, gave support when you needed it and made you laugh. Everyone would be a better person if they had a Dr. Woods in their life. She will be greatly missed.

Madelyn Ridgeway on Jan 22, 2025

Barbara and I were both Alabama natives and Alabama A&M Home Economics Alumni so she took me under her wing as a new ISU Extension employee. We quickly became friends and I gained a 20-yr mentor. As many have said, her honesty, warmth, and kindness drew you in and made you feel cared for. Years later, she became my Soror in Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. and continued to mentor me in our beloved organization.

To say I will miss her is an understatement. She left an indelible mark on many lives that cannot be erased. Enjoy heaven, Barbara❀️I salute your greatness

Cathy Webb on Jan 22, 2025

It was always a joy to be with Barbara in a meeting or in a casual conversation. Her dedication to others and wanting to do the best she can and help others to do their best, was who Barbara was. She helped me with my roses, and in retirement, we were in the pool at the same time talking about cars, gardens, and projects. She loved her Camero and was looking forward to seeing our MGB. Barbara definitely left this world a better place. Well done, good and faithful servant.

Jan Britson on Jan 22, 2025

My path crossed with Barbara as a city of Ames employee as the swim lesson coordinator! She took part in our adult lessons. What a joy to watch her overcome her fears and float!

Amber Wengert on Jan 22, 2025

Amber Wengert on Jan 22, 2025

Barbara was just a wonderful individual who served her community in many ways, including serving as a Story County Extension Member. Staff and fellow council members enjoyed working with her. She will be dearly missed.

Amber Wengert on Jan 22, 2025

Barbara was just a wonderful individual who served her community in many ways, including serving as a Story County Extension Member. Staff and fellow council members enjoyed working with her. She will be dearly missed.

James and Sharon Hurt on Jan 22, 2025

CandleTo the family of Dr. Barbara Woods. We met Barbara through her relationship with our daughter Tera. What an amazing Christlike woman who truly exhibited the Fruits of the Spirit here on earth. The communities and people that Barbara touched during her lifetime were impacted in positives ways and will live on in their lives forever. Our thoughts and prayers are with Barbara's family, extended families and friends. To GOD be The GLORY for a life so very well-lived!

Christine Hradek on Jan 22, 2025

I was lucky enough to be an office neighbor of Dr. Woods for several years. She taught me a lot of things including how to make delicious Key Lime Pie which is now one of my dad's favorites. I will think of her every time I make one.

Amari Love. on Jan 22, 2025

Barbara always bare kindness & authenticity to her heart. She would always greet me with a warm smile & hug, waiting for the latest update on my life. One thing you could always count on was her giving her honest opinion on things. I respected that and the woman she was. Her legacy will never fall short and I commend the contributions she's made to the lives of others.

Craig Hertel on Jan 22, 2025

My condolences to the family. Colleague Barabara taught me important lessons, for which I'm eternally grateful. In the latter intersection of our careers, we saw each other infrequently, but ALWAYS a warm, kind embrace. Fond memories. Rest in Peace Barbara.

Sandy Hunerdosse on Jan 21, 2025

I met her delivering her mail, such a bright light for me at the end of the day β™₯️ as she shared her joy of her flowers, telling me about this one or that one. 😊 always met me w a smile and now and then I would do a little extra for her w pkgs left on front step and she was so grateful. She was just a positive person and left a mark on me forever.
RIP sweet Barbara

Jed Findlay on Jan 21, 2025

These are a handful of ISU Extension and Outreach images.

Jed Findlay on Jan 21, 2025

These are a handful of ISU Extension and Outreach images.

Jed Findlay on Jan 21, 2025

These are a handful of ISU Extension and Outreach images.

Jed Findlay on Jan 21, 2025

These are a handful of ISU Extension and Outreach images.

Jed Findlay on Jan 21, 2025

These are a handful of ISU Extension and Outreach images.

Jed Findlay on Jan 21, 2025

These are a handful of ISU Extension and Outreach images.

Troy A. on Jan 21, 2025

CandleDr. Barbara Woods was a beacon of knowledge and inspiration within Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS), and a champion for Cooperative Extension. Her unwavering dedication to teaching FCS formerly known as Home Economics ignited a passion for learning in countless classrooms she visited and programs she delivered. Dr. Woods not only imparted valuable lessons but also nurtured curiosity and empowered those she came in contact with to reach their full potential.

Thank you Dr. Woods for your boundless kindness, unwavering support, and the lasting impact you have made on this journey. Rest in peace.

Stephanie Downs on Jan 21, 2025

I am so sorry to hear of Barbara's passing, my deepest sympathies. What a truly beautiful woman inside and out! I had the incredible opportunity to connect with Barbara during COVID on one of our programs at ISU. She was full of light and joy and goodness! I was blessed to get to know her more through conversations on flowers and plants and will be ever grateful for her knowledge and appreciation of nature. Her kindness was a gift and oh, could she make you laugh!
She became a dear friend and I only knew her for a few years - but that is Barbara, she loved all and gave so much of herself every day! I will miss her dearly and look forward to the first spring blooms on campus.

Christian Block on Jan 21, 2025

When you met Barbara, you were immediately struck by her welcoming presence. She had a way of making everyone feel valued - whether you were a long-time church member or a first-time visitor. Her commitment to building an "inclusive family of faith" is more than just words; it's a lived experience for everyone who knew her. Her fantastic laugh and engaging conversations about current events were a gift to everyone around her. Barbara didn't just participate in community life - she enriched it, bringing people together and spreading joy wherever she went. To Barbara Woods: You are a treasure of Ames, a shining example of grace, service, and community spirit. Your contributions inspired and uplifted those around you.
Christian Block

Ann & Chad Mobley on Jan 21, 2025

CandleThank you, Marsha, for beautifully capturing the essence of who Barbara was. I could have listened forever to her stories of childhood, especially the lessons learned from her grandfather and her journey to earning a PhD as a black woman in Iowa in the '70s. One of my most cherished memories is when Babs drove her 'race car' on gravel without hesitation to celebrate our wedding with us. She was a loyal friend and one of the strongest, most faith-filled women I've ever known. I will miss her laugh, her mischievous smile and catch-phrases, the pride she took in choosing the perfect birthday gift for herself each year, and the stories of her trips home to Alabama. Knowing Barbara made me a better person, and the world is a better and more beautiful place because of her. We will feel her presence with every flower that blooms.

Derek Wiers on Jan 21, 2025

My wife and I were her neighbor to the north from 2012 to 2016. She was a great neighbor, full of life and always enjoyed being outside and driving her Camaro. She will be missed!

Jami Larson on Jan 21, 2025

I got to know Barbara through Rotary more than twenty years ago, and additionally we worked together on at least two Habitat homes. The two of us put up aluminum siding on one Habitat home one afternoon after both of us being trained on what we were supposed to do. It actually looked pretty good. She had a dry sense of humor and we always had fun "sassing" each other. She will be missed.

Jody Gatewood on Jan 21, 2025

Barbara was a wonderful friend and colleague. I'll forever cherish the time we spent working together for ISU Extension. For a couple of years we had offices next door. We had many great conversations and she always provided a listening ear. A group of us enjoyed lots of lunches together in 101 MacKay. Barbara told many great stories and she could really make us laugh! She gave selflessly of her time and knowledge to make her community and the world a better place. She will be greatly missed.

Marsha on Jan 21, 2025

Dr. Barbara Woods was a force! Even though many people told her about her amazing, positive impact on their lives, she always felt she was just doing her job. She was deeply humble, carrying the wisdom imparted by her grandfather, who taught her many things, including that life was about teaching and learning. Her natural leadership and energy ensured she never stayed in the background for long.

When I visited Barbara in the hospital, she introduced me as a "new friend," a perfect reflection of her boundless warmth and openness. My friendship with Barbara began years ago when we worked together on Habitat for Humanity home builds in the early 2000s. She was remarkable, teaching people practical skills and sharing her wealth of knowledge. Barbara was a HfH construction worker, but to her, it was just another way of living out her passion for home economics. She brought that same spirit of care and precision to every task she undertook.

Five years ago, I had the incredible fortune of becoming her office neighbor, and that is when I truly discovered the depth of Barbara's friendship and love. She guided me in countless ways, recommending books and articles to read, Podcasts to listen to, and teaching me how to turn my convictions into meaningful action. Barbara had an unmatched talent for educating others, introducing me to the beauty of plants, flowers, trees, and the treasures of the Iowa State University campus.

Barbara was a true friend to so many people. She was an inspiration, a dedicated public servant, and a steadfast fan of Iowa State University, passionately committed to learning, growth, and making the world a more beautiful, colorful place. While Ames became her adopted home, her heart never strayed far from the piece of land in Alabama where she grew up.

Barbara’s life was a shining example of how to live with purpose, generosity, and grace. She touched the lives of everyone she met, leaving behind a legacy of love, learning, and transformation. The world is better because of her, and now it is up to us to continue to work for a better world. Barbara will be deeply missed.

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Visitation

Jan
23
Thursday
Grandon Funeral & Cremation Care
414 Lincoln Way
Ames, IA, United States 50010
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM


Service

Jan
24
Friday
First Baptist Church
200 Lynn Avenue
Ames, Iowa 50014
11:00 AM


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Barbara A Woods

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Barbara A Woods

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"Faith, hope, love; but the greatest of these is love"