Theresa Ann Woods

Theresa Ann Woods, who spent most of her life in Coeur d’Alene and was known for her beautiful smile and generous spirit, died on March 30 at the age of 84.

Theresa was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico and moved to Coeur d’Alene when she was 16.

She was known for her generosity, giving $20 tips to fast-food workers and donating regularly to the Coeur d’Alene Press Chrismas program.

Theresa, who earned a General Educational Development certificate, was familiar to many in the community because of her different jobs.

As a Buttrey’s Grocery Store checker, she was a favorite among shoppers because she was not only fast but gregarious. She later worked as a cashier at Lee’s Outdoor Outfitters, gave out chocolate chip cookie samples at Albertsons and was a bartender at Powder River Saloon.

Theresa’s Catholic faith played a huge role in her life. She attended St. Thomas the Apostle Church, St. Pius X Catholic Church and most recently St. Joan of Arc Roman Catholic Church.

She enjoyed playing the Coeur d’Alene Casino slots and made friends with employees.

In the 1980s, she liked to run. After one Bloomsday race, she crossed the finish line and her son ran out with a cigarette so she could celebrate with a smoke. 

She and her husband Wesley Woods were sweethearts at Coeur d’Alene High School. They liked going to local bars Fort Grounds Tavern, 1210 Tavern and Powder River Saloon. She also enjoyed listening and dancing to Elvis Presley, Rolling Stones and Creedence Clearwater Revival. She also loved country music and dancing to the Theresa Edwards Band at the Eagles 15th Street Pavilion.

She was preceded in death by her husband Wesley Woods in 2018. 

Theresa is survived by her children Michelle Windham (Bob), Nancy McEwen (Chad) and Wesley Woods II (Wendy); three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She is also survived by siblings Biron Larsen and Linda Wozniak. Brother Tony Larsen preceded her in death.

A graveside service will be at 11 a.m. April 6 at Riverview Cemetery, 1065 Lincoln Way, Coeur d’Alene.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests people donate to their favorite charity.