Clarence “Brother” Woods

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Clarence “Brother” Woods, who passed away at the age of 80, surrounded by his loving family, on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at Overlook Hospital in Summit, New Jersey.

Clarence was born on March 27, 1945, in Mound Bayou, Mississippi, to the late Phil and Ella Woods. He was raised in the Stapleton section of Staten Island, New York, where he built the foundation of the strong, hardworking, and compassionate man he would become. He graduated from Curtis High School in St. George, Staten Island, and soon after answered the call to serve his country.

He proudly served in the United States Air Force, completing four years of active duty followed by additional time in the reserves. During his service, he was stationed at McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey and was honorably discharged. Clarence earned distinction as a Small Arms Expert Marksman, a recognition of his skill, discipline, and commitment. He carried the pride of his military service with him throughout his life.

Following his service, Clarence began his career in data processing at Bankers Trust in New York City. In 1974, he joined the New York Clearing House, where he built a long and successful career that would span decades and multiple locations, including New York, Weehawken, New Jersey, and Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Through dedication and perseverance, he rose to the position of Director of Computer Operations before retiring in 2014.

In 1981, Clarence became a resident of Plainfield, New Jersey, where he remained for the rest of his life, becoming a valued and familiar presence in the community.

Clarence’s life was defined not only by his work and service, but by love, laughter, and unforgettable stories. His love story with his wife, Clorinda, is one that will be cherished for generations. As the story goes, Clarence first saw Clorinda Kee on Broadway in Staten Island and turned to a friend, saying, “That’s the girl I’m going to marry.” Fate had its own sense of humor, and not long after, while Clarence was fishing off a pier, his hook quite literally caught Clorinda as she walked by. That unexpected moment sparked a connection that grew into a lifetime of love. They were married at Shiloh AME Zion Church in Staten Island and shared 58 beautiful years together.

Their bond was one of deep devotion. On a vacation in Jamaica, while snorkeling, Clorinda drifted too far from shore. Without hesitation, Clarence swam out and brought her safely back. It was a powerful reflection of the man he had always been, a steady, selfless, and protective. Clorinda always found comfort in his presence, knowing she was deeply loved and cared for by her partner in every sense.

Clarence found joy in life’s simple and meaningful pleasures. He loved fishing, especially trips to Montauk, New York, where he would head out on charter boats with close friends. He had a passion for building and working on cars, always enjoying the creativity and precision involved. His latest project was a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, which he was customizing with a striking white buffalo design. He also enjoyed playing chess, a reflection of his thoughtful and strategic mind.

A generous and giving man, Clarence found great fulfillment in helping others. Through his work at the New York Clearing House, he helped establish a program to raise money for families in need during the holidays. Each year, he took pride in purchasing turkeys with those funds, delivering them to local churches, and assisting in their distribution. It brought him genuine happiness to give back to his community and help others during the holiday season.

Above all, Clarence was a family man. He loved deeply and was deeply loved in return. He is predeceased by his parents, Phil and Ella Woods, and his brothers, Anthony, Howard, and Tyrone Woods.

He is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 58 years, Clorinda Kee Woods; his cherished daughter, Kimberly Woods; his beloved twin grandsons, Parker John Woods and Preston Clarence Woods; his sister, Barbara Martinez; and his brother, Frank Woods. He also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Clarence “Brother” Woods lived a life of honor, love, and quiet strength. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and in the countless lives he touched through his kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to his family.