FRANKLIN
Mary Ellen Cain Woods, born June 12, 1937 in Watertown, NY to the late J. Ralph and Margaret (Butler) Cain, died on December 25, 2022. She married James W. Woods on November 24, 1962 in Indianapolis, IN. James preceded her in death on June 30, 1981. Mary Ellen later married Raymond A. Jump on May 4, 1984. Raymond preceded her in death on June 22, 1992.
Mary Ellen was a graduate of St. Agnes High School and St. Vincent’s Hospital School of Nursing. She worked as a Registered Nurse her entire career as a surgical nurse, floor nurse, in private practice for Drs. Records and Weber, and finally as school nurse at Earlywood Education Center. The following quote from Maya Angelou best articulates Mary Ellen’s service to others and seems especially apropos given that she suffered memory loss in her later years: “As a nurse we have the opportunity to heal the mind, soul, heart, and body of our patients. They may forget your name but they will never forget how you made them feel.”
Mary Ellen was a member of St. Rose Catholic Church, Hillview Country Club, and former member of Tri-Kappa service organization. She was elected to two separate terms as school board member for the Franklin Community School Corporation as well as Needham Township Trustee.
Mary Ellen was an enthusiastic traveler. She made several trips overseas and enjoyed spending time with her friends. She was her boys’ biggest cheerleader, attending football games at Franklin Community High School and Wabash College. Mary Ellen was a lover of dogs and owned several through the course of her life. She was an accomplished Bridge player and playing cards brought out a competitive spirit. She was a “transplant” to Franklin from the big city of Indianapolis when she arrived in 1962, but was proud to adopt the community where she raised her boys. She loved Franklin and its people and made life-long friendships. She enjoyed walking and completed a number of mini-marathons.
Mary Ellen is survived by her two sons, J. Andrew Woods (DeAnna) and Steven W. Woods (Shelese) and five grandchildren: Anna, Nick, Maggie, Noah and Elizabeth. Other survivors include her brother James R. Cain (Gretchen) and sister Sue Byers.
Visitation will be held on Friday, January 6, 2023 from 10am-11am at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Franklin with a mass to follow. A celebration of life will follow the mass at The Garment Factory in Franklin where all are welcome to attend and toast to Mary Ellen’s life. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to St. Rose of Lima. Flinn and Maguire Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Expressions of caring and kindness may be received to the family at www.flinnmaguire.net
