William Martin Woods, 74, of Cordova passed from this life on July 1, 2022. Martin was born August 14, 1947 to Bessie Ashe Woods and John Henry Woods. Martin was born and raised in Cordova. He played basketball and was All-State in track and field for Germantown High School where he graduated in 1965. After graduation he joined the Army Reserves. In 1969, Martin joined the Memphis City Fire Department. Martin was one of Memphis' finest for 33 years. As a result of fighting fires , he developed multiple myeloma. He bravely fought his cancer but lost the battle on Friday.

Martin has many hobbies. He loved hunting, baseball, classic cars, and bluegrass music just to name a few. He was also a talented and trusted mechanic. One of his favorite things to do was to coach. He coached many baseball, softball, and basketball players over the years. He had an abundance of patience with each player. Martin taught a lot of things to a lot of people.

Martin was blessed with the ability to make people laugh. When he would walk into a room people would gravitate towards him. Everyone wanted to hear Martin tell one of his stories. He made the world a happier place.

He leaves his wife Diane Roberson Woods of 50 years, daughter Leslie (Keith) Harper of Smyrna, TN, and son Kevin (Rebecca) of Lakeland. Also, 3 granddaughters Molly, Caroline, and Emily Harper of Smyrna, TN. He leaves his sister Johnnie Faye McLean of Midland, NC. Also leaves nieces Alison List of VA, Marla Baswell of NC, Brian White of TX, and Rob White of NC. Martin a lso leaves a host of beloved cousins.

Martin was a longtime member of Sycamore View Church of Christ.