John Robert Woods

John Robert Woods, 78, passed away in his Indianapolis home on July 30, 2024, with his wife Lynn by his side. Born October 21, 1945, to parents Marjorie and Robert Woods, he developed a deep sense of responsibility to others. He was genuinely interested in and kind to everyone he came in contact with, and this earned him many loyal friends.

John spent much of his life in Indiana, graduating from Howe High School and Hanover College. After serving in the Army he attended Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, graduating with a PhD in experimental psychology. This led him to a position at Methodist Hospital, Indianapolis, where he pioneered a health services research department, working to improve quality and outcomes of medical interventions.

In 1998 he accepted a position at the University of South Carolina, to develop a health services research program, and he and his wife moved to South Carolina for seven years, enjoying the beautiful scenery and history of the area.

They then moved back to Indianapolis and he worked at IU Health until retirement. He was a true scholar and wrote and published many scientific papers, partnering with his colleagues. He also loved music and philosophy and learning new scientific concepts and ideas.

John was a family man first and foremost. He enjoyed 55 years of marriage with his devoted wife Lynn Woods. He cherished his sons and grandchildren. He continued the tradition taught by his mother of honoring family members on their birthday and spending holidays together.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Marjorie Woods and father Robert Woods.

John is survived by his wife Lynn Woods, his sons Erik (Heather) Woods, Jason (Zoey) Woods, his sister Linda Woods, and Erik and Heather’s children (his grandchildren) Makenna Woods and Cole Woods.

Funeral services will be held on Friday August 9, at Crown Hill Funeral Home, 700 W 38th St, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46208.

Viewing will be from 10AM to 12PM, followed by a service at 12PM with Chaplain Tom Bartley officiating. Burial will follow at Crown Hill Cemetery. Arrangements are by Crown Hill Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to www.sierraclubfoundation.org or https://onetreeplanted.org.