The Wahkiakum County Eagle - Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891

Lela Claire Woods (nee Kyes), beloved mother, sister, wife and nana, went to walk in Heaven on April 3, 2011, after a long illness. She passed peacefully at home in her sleep, surrounded by her family. She was 60 years old.

Lela was born August 7, 1950 in Eau Claire, Wis. to Sidney and Eva (Wilson) Kyes. She was raised in Cathlamet and Longview, graduated from Wahkiakum High School, and spent most of her life in Washington, with a small part being spent in Astoria.

She loved being surrounded by her friends and family. She loved watching the birds out her window, working in her yard, and just sitting around chatting. She was an avid Disney fan, and loved what she called her “smart shows” on TV (history and science programs). She loved to learn about anything new, and was always looking for new things to know. She instilled this love of learning in her children, and always encouraged them in their education. One of the greatest joys in her life was her grandchildren. They were the most special people in her life.

She was preceded in death by her father Sidney “Dick”, her mother Eva, her sister Faun, and her sister Eva. She is survived by her partner in life, Byron Woods Jr., her son James Kyes (Emily), her daughter Deidra Woods (Roderick), her sister Dixie Hancock (Chuck), her grandchildren Jennica, Jarod, and Elise, and by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and friends too many to name.

Memorial services will be announced privately to family and friends. Remembrances in lieu of flowers may be made to Hospice of Snohomish County, or the Everett Providence Oncology Department.

Dedicated with love by her children James and Deidra, and her partner, Byron.

Lela was my last sister to go to the Lord. She is with Eva and Faun Kyes. I love and miss them all, their loving little sister, C. Dixie Hancock-Kyes.