Helen Page Woods

Helen Page Woods, 76, a deeply cherished mother, grandmother, and devoted friend, passed away peacefully Thursday evening, April 16, 2026, at Wellstar MCG Hospital in Augusta. Born on January 4, 1950, Helen was the eldest of four daughters born to the late Dottie Owens Page and Charles Roy Page. Raised in Augusta, she left school at a young age to help support her family and demonstrated a lifelong commitment to hard work and dedication.

Helen's professional journey began with various local jobs before she obtained her Commercial Driver’s License, after which she served as a school bus driver for Richmond County. Her career later led her to Gracewood State School and Hospital, where she devoted over twenty years as a Transportation Specialist, earning the respect and admiration of her colleagues.

Known for being a forthright and candid individual, Helen spoke her mind without hesitation, embodying the spirit of a straight-shooter. As a mother to five boys, she embraced her role with seriousness and discipline, balanced by her warm humor and great capacity to listen and offer thoughtful advice. A hard worker and industrious by nature, she was also highly organized and meticulous, particularly noted as a gifted recordkeeper.

Helen’s love extended fervently to her family, especially her grandchildren, whom she adored beyond words. She loved with all her heart, taking immense joy in family gatherings and nurturing the bonds she treasured most. Among her many passions were music—she delighted in listening to the “oldie goldies” in her youth and later classic country tunes—caring for her beloved dogs, watching hummingbirds, fishing in her younger years, exploring flea markets and auctions, and expressing her creativity through arts and crafts, often featuring glitter in her projects. Gardening and cooking were also among her delights; she was widely celebrated for her pound cakes, declared by many to be the best ever.

Helen is survived by her loving sons, Richard Rowe Jr. (June), Bryan Rowe, John “JB” Bates (Rebecca), and Carlton “Bones” Bates (Kelley); eight grandchildren: Rebecca Martin, Eric Rowe (Nicole), Christian Rowe, Brandon Rowe (Hannah), Katlin Burdette (Marcus), Keelan Sheppard, Cameron Barefield (Caitlin), and Keegan Barefield; and sixteen great-grandchildren who brought tremendous joy to her life. She is also survived by her sister, Charlene Sizemore, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will remember her spirit fondly.

Helen was also preceded in death by her devoted husband, Eric Conrad Woods; her son, Charles “Spud” Bates; and two sisters, Martha Page Ivey and Cindy Page.

Family and friends will gather to honor and celebrate Helen’s remarkable life Friday evening, April 24, 2026, at James Funeral Home with visitation from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. followed by a Celebration of Life with Matthew Nick Bates officiating.

Helen Page Woods will long be remembered for her unwavering love, her steadfast honesty, and her generous, heartfelt spirit—a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her. May she rest in peace.