Paul Edward Woods, age 93, of Charleston, Illinois, passed away Thursday morning, April 23, 2026, at Willow Breeze Hospice House in Mattoon.

      He was born November 7, 1932, in Newton, the son of Jesse Lee and Gladys (Stoops) Woods.

      Paul proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. Before entering the service, he worked as a parts salesman at the Newton Chrysler dealership, a job that sparked his lifelong love of automobiles.  He owned several sports cars in his younger years and had been planning the purchase of a Chrysler 300 in more recent years. He went on to work for many years with Canteen Vending Services, filling and repairing vending machines.

      Paul served as minister for Mounds Assembly of God Church in Mounds, and later served for seven years as director of Wingman Ministries at the 403 House in Charleston, a ministry offering post-incarceration support for men.

      Paul enjoyed fishing with his brothers, Bob and Lee. He was also an avid bowler and participated in several men’s bowling leagues over the years.

      He is survived by his children: Lisa Olnes, Dawn Flummer Sikkink, Paul “Bud” Woods Jr., Todd Woods, Troy Woods, and Tiffany Woods; 12 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

      He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Lee Woods and Bob Woods; and a sister: Bea Fields-Clark.

      A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Flora Assembly of God Church with Steve Prather officiating.  Military funeral honors will be presented prior to the start of the ceremony.  A visitation will be held from 12 noon until 1 p.m. on Friday at the church.  Arrangements are by Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Memorial donations are suggested to the Flora Assembly of God Church or to the family to assist with final expenses, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.