Gene Paul Woods, age 89, of Elgin, IL, passed away on September 13, 2025. He was born April 19, 1936 in Detroit, MI to his loving parents, Laurence and Lois Woods.

Gene spent his childhood in Anna, IL, surrounded by the companionship of his nine siblings, including his twin brother, Glenn. In time, he met the love of his life, Jean Kathrin Mowery, and the two were married on December 27, 1954. Shortly thereafter, they relocated to Elgin, IL, where they raised their son, Gary, and built a life filled with devotion and joy. Gene and Jean were blessed to share 70 loving years together.

Throughout his career, Gene worked at the Elgin Metal Casket Company, St. Charles Kitchens, and Williams Manufacturing, where he was respected for his steady work ethic and dedication.

Outside of work, Gene found joy in simple pleasures. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing and hunting, and he took pride in tending his garden. He also had a passion for coin collecting, a hobby that reflected his patience and attention to detail.

Above all, Gene will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and family man whose quiet strength and love left a lasting legacy.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Fae, Laurence Jr., Kenneth, Harold, Janet, Donald, and twin brother Glenn. He is survived by his wife, Jean Woods; son, Gary Woods; brothers, Carl and Ray; granddaughters, Chrissy (Tommy) Carpenter and Cathy (Sam) Mancini; great-grandchildren, Cohen, Kylee, Caden, and Kendal Carpenter, and Logan and Madelyne Mancini; and best friend, Wayne Alexander.

A memorial visitation will be held from 1:00pm until funeral service at 2:30pm, Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Symonds-Madison Funeral Home, 305 Park Street, Elgin, IL 60120.

Interment will be private.

Final arrangements entrusted to Symonds-Madison Funeral Home. For more information, call 847-741-1128.