Martin Ryan Woods

Martin Ryan Woods of Athens, Ohio, passed away on Friday, June 28, 2024, at the age of forty-eight, as the result of injuries suffered in a traffic crash while riding his bicycle. He was life-flighted to Cabell Huntington Hospital on Father’s Day. Martin was a cherished son, brother, and uncle.Born in Aberdeen, South Dakota, on February 6, 1976, Martin was preceded in death by his grandparents Helen & Edgar Woods, Aletha W. Ryan, Roy James Smith, and his mother, RoRy Ryan Smith Woods, who was grateful for the constant comfort and care Martin provided through her health challenges. He is survived by his father, Edgar Hugh Woods Jr., of Athens, OH; his aunt Johanna Starr, of Weirton, WV; his brother, Edgar Hugh Woods III; Brandie Keys; and their daughter, Bella Woods, of Carroll, OH.

Martin attended Morrison-Gordon Elementary, Athens Middle School, and Athens High School. He earned a forestry certificate from Hocking College and supported the family business by working at Ryan’s Restaurant, later working for MI Homes.

In his teens, Martin excelled in baseball, tennis, and skiing. Later in life, he became an avid cyclist who enjoyed the outdoors, woodworking, gardening, and cooking—trying mightily but never mastering his mom’s mashed potato recipe. He could often be found fishing at Fox Lake in his small boat. 

Martin's adventurous spirit led him on a memorable journey out West with his brother Hugh and his mom. They visited the Badlands, Devil's Tower, Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Grand Canyon, and Las Vegas. He also enjoyed several cruises, including an Alaskan adventure and a transatlantic crossing from Europe. Martin was an animal lover with a particular fondness for his dog, Mo Honey. In his final act of compassion, Martin became a tissue donor. 

As we mourn his untimely passing, we celebrate a life filled with big dreams and bold ideas. Calling hours will be from 11 AM to 1 PM on Monday, July 8, 2024, at Hughes-Moquin Funeral Home in Athens, Ohio. Following the visitation, a private burial service for family and close friends will occur at the Alexander Presbyterian Cemetery in Albany, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (https://namiathensohio.org/get-involved/donate/) or donate to NAMI at the funeral home website. Those who wish to sign the online guestbook or leave the family a message of sympathy may do so at www.ehwfh.com.