Merle C. "Chris" Woods

Marion- Merle C. Chris Woods, 91, of Marion, passed away at 12 Noon, Friday, December 11, 2009 at the Veterans Administration Nursing Center in Marion. Chris was born on December 13, 1917 in Herrin to Harry & Pearl (Dawson) Woods. He married Mary Louise Dralle Gingrich on April 15, 1981 in New Orleans, LA. She survives of Marion. Mr. Woods was a first Lieutenant and piloted B-17s for the US Army Air Corp during WWII. He retired as a Captain. Once discharged, he worked for 21 years as manager of industrial sales for Pennzoil Oil Company. Chris attended the Marion First United Methodist Church and was a thirty second degree member of the Marion Masonic Lodge AF & AM. He was a faithful member of Williamson County Shrine Club and a former member of the Franklin County Country club. He loved playing golf and spending time with friends and family. Survivors include- Wife- Mary Louise Woods of Marion Daughter- Deborah Standish and husband Kem of California, MD Daughter- Christine Moore of Chesapeake Beach, MD Step Daughter- Sharon Louise McKinney and husband James of Benton Step Son- Michael Gingrich and wife Vickie of Tunnel Hill Step Daughter- Mary Jane Cagle of Salem, OR Grandchildren: Todd Standish Lauren Elliott Jennaca Rodgers Amanda Rodgers Four Great Grandchildren He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother. The funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM, Tuesday, December 15, 2009 at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral home in Marion. Rev. Robert Shook will officiate. Burial will follow at Herrin City Cemetery. Military rites will be performed at graveside by the Marion VFW & American Legion Posts. Visitation will be from 11:00 AM until time of service, Tuesday, December 15, 2009 at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home in Marion.