W.T. Shumake & Daughters

Charles Edward Woods, "Billy", 70, of Louisville departed this life on Thursday, January 11, 2024.

Visitation 10-11am Wednesday, January 17, 2024 at W.T. Shumake & Daughters Funeral Home 3815 Newburg Road. Funeral to follow at 11am. Burial Petersburg-Newburg Cemetery.



Charles Edward Woods was born September 4, 1953, to Dorothy Swint Woods Ratcliffe and Horace Woods in Louisville, Kentucky. He was the second oldest of their six children. Billy, as he was called by family and friends, was an overly active, friendly child who was a little mischievous. Growing up with five brothers, Billy often would borrow their clothes without permission since they were the best dressed people he knew. This resulted in him developing from them an exquisite taste in clothing.



To help channel his energy as a young boy, the California Boys Club was just what he needed. He took an interest in boxing and was a natural. Fred Stoner, the legendary boxing trainer, worked with Billy and encouraged him to compete as an amateur Golden Glove boxer. He had the privilege of sparing with Muhammad Ali. As he grew into manhood, Billy worked side by side with his father building houses for the Lee Pruitt Construction Company for many years before he was employed by General Electric where he worked until he retired due to illness.



Billy was both an outgoing and giving person. Once someone became his friend, that person was his friend for life. He was not one to look for trouble, but he would stand up for those who needed help because of situations such as bullying or being treated unfairly. Soul music was his favorite, and he enjoyed listening, dancing, and singing to it. He could be easily described as "the life of the party".



He was preceded in death by his father, Horace Woods & brother James Woods. Sadly, on Thursday, January 11, 2024, Charles Edward Woods departed this life. He leaves to cherish their memories his mother, Dorothy Ratcliffe; brothers, Michael Woods, William Lamont Woods, Darryl Woods, and Terry Woods; aunt, Eleanora Woods; and a host of nieces and nephews.