Janet Aileen Virginia Duchac Woods, a native of Antigo, Wis. and past president of the Eastern Shore Art Association, director of the Eastern Shore Art Academy and a founder of Bay Rivers Art Guild, passed away May 30. But friends say that the works of this devoted woman continue in the community.

“Aileen Woods was dearly loved and respected by everyone,” Patricia Ernst recalled. “She had a degree in interior design and was a painter, a potter, a weaver, a quilter and a basket maker. As the years passed, her eyesight weakened to the point that she could no longer participate in those activities. But that didn't prevent her from creating an environment where others could participate in those pursuits.”

Ernst said Woods gathered twelve friends in her home and created the Bay Rivers Art Guild in Daphne. Then Mayor Harry Brown provided an empty building and the ladies got to work. That building was eventually torn down to build the Daphne Public Library and BRAG is now located in the former Daphne Jail behind City Hall.

“And this year celebrates its (BRAG's) 20 year anniversary, all because in 1993, Aileen Woods had a plan for cultural enrichment in the town of Daphne,” Ernst revealed.

Woods kindness and support was also felt by the community at a very personal level, according to Jackie Posey.

“She was just an all around terrific person, a very, very loyal friend to everybody she came in contact with,” she began. “She was always there to offer encouragement to everyone and also very quick to tell you you were wrong.”

Woods is remembered through her work at Christ the King Catholic school and church, The Lighthouse domestic violence program, Thomas Hospital, Girl Scouts Camp Scoutshire Woods in Citronelle, the list goes on and on.

Posey remembers how tragic news of a death was coupled with Woods' springing into cooking and organizing food for the family. She also said Woods took in stray animals, fascinated children and kept in touch with friends throughout her life.

“She was tireless and always pushing people to do better and had a real sense of community.”