LEEWOOD WOODELL

January 9, 1941 - May 18, 2022

Leewood was born in Quincy, FL, to Jessie S. and Mortimer B. Bates Jr. She majored in history at Agnes Scott College and Emory University.

Leewood taught elementary school in Orlando, FL, where she met Tom Woodell. She and Tom married in 1969 and moved to Houston where they began their family. Tom and Leewood have three daughters Blair, Amy, and Sallie. Leewood put all her energy into her family, whether it was making from-scratch cookies, girls scout trips, or driving the kids to their many after school activities.

Leewood was a very active community member. She was an active fundraiser for St. Francis School, Hunters Creek Elementary, Spring Branch Middle School and Memorial High School. She served as PTA President twice. She served on the

Board of Directors for the Houston Museum of Natural Science. She helped form and lead Houston’s first chapter of the National Charity League.

When Leewood wasn’t volunteering, she and Tom enjoyed playing tennis and socializing at the Forest Club.

Leewood enjoyed spending time at their house in Arrowhead, Colorado where

she participated in a range of winter and summer activities including the outdoor Bravo Concert Series.

Staying connected to friends and family brought Leewood so much joy. She would travel near and far to attend parties and visit with friends and relatives.

Leewood was predeceased by her parents Jessie S. and Mort Bates Jr. She is survived by her husband Tom; daughters Blair (Henry), Amy (Sean), and Sallie(Carol); grandchildren Madeline, Max, Dylan, and Caroline; brothers Mort III and Richard and sister-in-law Jan. Services will be held at Chapelwood United Methodist Church Sanctuary (11140 Greenbay Street, Houston) at 3 pm on Thursday May 26. The service will be livestreamed as well.

A reception will follow at the Forest Club 4:30-7:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to one of these organizations:

Texas Children’s Hospital Round Up River Ranch Gadsen Arts Center https://www.charlesmcclellanfh.com/obituaries/obituary-listings