Jose M. Woods

Master Sergeant Jose M. Woods, US Air Force, Retired 

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Master Sergeant Jose M. Woods, United States Air Force (Retired), who was called to Heaven at the age of 82 on February 20, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. 

 Jose was born on December 19, 1942, in Three Rivers, Texas, to Thomas Woods and Angelita Ybanez. He enlisted in the United States Air Force on July 2, 1963, and served his country with honor for nearly 25 years before retiring in June 1988. Throughout his military career, Jose traveled the world and was most proud to be recognized as a “Vietnam Veteran.” He was decorated with numerous honors, including the Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, and several Vietnam-related medals and ribbons. As an Aircraft Structural Maintenance Specialist, Jose’s work in the Air Force focused on the repair of fighter jets. He had a particular love for the F-4 Phantom and F-15 Eagle. He took great pride in his responsibilities, and was proud to be called an "Eagle Keeper", a term assigned to personnel for ensuring and maintaining the operational readiness of the F-15 fighter jets. After retiring from the Air Force, he continued his work on aircraft for several companies, including Boeing. 

 Jose enjoyed many hobbies during his life, including spending time with his family, working on his 1972 Gran Torino, taking road trips, playing Blackjack and Poker, singing his favorite songs, searching for the best Green Chile cheeseburger, watching college & NFL football and dancing with his beloved. 

His greatest love in life was his wife, Ramona, with whom he shared 54 years of marriage. From the moment they met, Jose was awestruck by her, and he cherished her everyday of their life together. With a loving smile, he spoke of how she would routinely visit him in his dreams after her passing on April 29, 2022. In addition to being a devoted husband, Jose was a loving father, grandfather, and friend. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. 

 Jose is survived by his three children: sons Kenneth L. Woods (Renae) and Joseph M. Woods (Claudia), and daughter Angelica M. Woods (Brian Morris). He also leaves behind six grandchildren: Rachel, Selena, Maya, Cara, Max and Ben as well as a great granddaughter, Arianna. Jose is further survived by numerous brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, cousins, and extended family members. 

 Jose will be laid to rest with full military honors at Fort Bliss National Cemetery in Fort Bliss, Texas, on March 7, 2025.