Dr Bill Woods Atlanta, GA Death and Obituary – Dr. William G. “Bill” Woods, a renowned leader in pediatric hematology and oncology, passed away on April 18, 2024, in Atlanta, Georgia, at the age of 77. Surrounded by his loving family, his death marked the end of a remarkable career dedicated to advancing cancer treatment and supporting countless children and families affected by serious illnesses. His loss is deeply felt by the medical community, his colleagues, and those whose lives he touched over his distinguished career.
Born on October 11, 1946, in Baltimore, Maryland, Dr. Woods’ passion for medicine was evident early in life. He earned his Bachelor of Science in biology from Bucknell University in 1968 and pursued his medical degree at the University of Pennsylvania, graduating in 1972. His training continued at the University of Minnesota, where he completed his pediatrics residency, and later at Cornell University, where he focused on pediatric hematology and oncology.
Dr. Woods’ academic career began at the University of Minnesota, where he joined the faculty in 1977. His early work made significant strides in pediatric oncology, especially in the study of hereditary retinoblastoma and neuroblastoma screening. He gained prominence for his involvement in advancing treatment protocols for acute myeloid leukemia (AML), which significantly improved survival rates for pediatric patients.
In 1993, he was appointed Director of Pediatric Hematology at the University of Minnesota. His leadership and groundbreaking research led to major contributions in the field, earning him national and international recognition. After a brief tenure in Oakland, California, Dr. Woods returned to Minnesota and became a pivotal figure in pediatric cancer research.
In 1996, Dr. Woods became the Director of the South Carolina Cancer Center, where he continued his work at the forefront of pediatric oncology. His next major role came in 2001 when he was named the inaugural Director of the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Under his guidance, Aflac became one of the top pediatric oncology programs in the United States, tripling the faculty size and expanding research into critical areas such as bone marrow transplantation, sickle cell disease, and survivorship care.
From 2001 to 2009, Dr. Woods also served as the Associate Director of the Winship Cancer Institute at Emory University, cementing his legacy as a leader in both clinical and academic spheres.
Dr. Woods was an influential figure in the Children’s Oncology Group (COG), serving on the executive committee and as associate chair for scientific affairs. As President of the American Society of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology (ASPHO) in 2006, he led major initiatives that improved the care of pediatric patients, including advancing the funding and treatment of sickle cell anemia. He authored over 250 publications, earning numerous accolades throughout his career, including the ASPHO Distinguished Career Award in 2011.
His leadership style was marked by humility, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to patient care. Dr. Woods was known for his ability to inspire those around him, often sharing the leadership advice, “Hire good people. Nice people. And let them do their best work.”
In his final years, Dr. Woods faced his own health battle with ALS, yet he continued to advocate for patients with the same passion and dedication that defined his career. He served on the Clinical Trials Team for I AM ALS, presented to the FDA, and participated in clinical trials to further the understanding of the disease.
Dr. Woods is survived by his devoted wife, Kathleen, his sons, Elliot and Andrew, and four grandchildren. His impact on pediatric oncology will be felt for generations to come.
A memorial service will be held to honor his extraordinary contributions, and condolences can be sent to the Woods family at their Atlanta address. Dr. Bill Woods’ legacy of leadership, compassion, and dedication to improving the lives of others will forever remain an inspiration to the medical community.