Elizabeth M. (Newell) Woods, 96, of Superior, formerly of Barnes, Wis., died Saturday, March 16, 2013 at the Lighthouse of Superior Assisted Living.

Elizabeth was born in Charles City, Iowa on June 18, 1916 the daughter of Jesse and Daisie Brownell.

She attended Superior schools and Bartley Business School following high school. She was employed by the Superior Board of Education for 32 years as a secretary, retiring in September of 1974.

Liz had been past Worthy Matron of Deborah Chapter #211 Order of the Eastern Star.

During her years living in Superior, she was an active member of Hammond Avenue Presbyterian Church. In the late 1970's she and her second husband, Earl Woods moved to Barnes. spending summers there and winters in Phoenix, Ariz. That life style lasted for over 30 years. During her time spent in Barnes, Liz became very involved in Barnes Community Church.

Liz is survived by her son Dan (Darlene) Newell of Brule; step-daughter, Ruth (Richard) Nystrom of Superior; grandchildren, Monika (George) Martin of Columbus, Ohio, Stacy Nystrom of Minnetonka, Minn., Leslie (David) Defries of Rosemount, Minn. and Kristy (Michael) Jelen of Lakeville, Minn.; great-grandchildren, Samuel and Nathan Defries, Matthew and Anna Wadman, and Gabriel and Drew Jelen; a brother, Lloyd Brownell of San Bruno, Calif.; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Dwight A. Newell; second husband, Earl M. Woods; her parents; sisters, Ruth Sexton and Margaret Pearson; a brother, Richard Brownell; and a grandson, Bryan Nystrom.

Liz will be remembered for her ever present smile, the twinkle in her eyes and wonderful positive attitude about life. She was a wonderful example to all who knew her. She will be sadly missed.

A celebration of her life will be held at United Presbyterian Church on Saturday April 6, at 11 a.m. Visitation will begin one hour prior. Rev. Jon Hartman of Barnes Community Church will officiate. Inurnment will be at Greenwood Cemetery.

For the last two years of her life, she has lived at the Lighthouse of Superior and the family would like to give a special Thank You to the wonderful staff.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be made to the United Presbyterian Church, 229 N. 28th St. Superior, WI 54880, or to the Barnes Community Church, 3200 County Hwy N Barnes, WI 54873.

Downs Funeral Home, corner of 19th and Ogden is assisting the family with arrangements.