Celestine Woody

On March 26, 2026, we gather to celebrate the life and legacy of Celestine Woody, a beloved mother, family member, and friend, who resided in Island Park, New York. Celestine peacefully departed this life on March 11, 2026. Celestine Woody was born on March 11, 1951, in Hartsville, South Carolina, to the late Lucious and Etta Howard. She was the second oldest of four children. She graduated from Butler High School as a proud member of the Class of 1969. Shortly thereafter, she relocated to Far Rockaway, NY where she built a life filled with love, family, and dedication. On June 26, 1976, Celestine was united in holy matrimony to Ronald E. Woody. Their union was one of love and devotion until his passing on August 4, 1986. From this union, two daughters were born, Vanisha Celeste Woody and Shakima Renee Woody. Her beloved daughter Shakima was born on August 2, 1983, and passed on August 8, 1983. Celestine began her professional career with Chase Manhattan Bank after moving to Far Rockaway, where she worked for several years. She later became a Keyboard Specialist at Kingsboro Psychiatric Center in Brooklyn, New York, where she faithfully served until her retirement at the age of 55. Celestine found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved cooking, traveling, shopping, talking on the phone, and spending quality time with family and friends. She also enjoyed dining out and was especially known for her famous potato salad, a dish that brought smiles to many gatherings. A woman of faith, Celestine attended Bethel AME Church in Far Rockaway NY for many years, remaining devoted until her health declined. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lucious and Etta Howard; her sisters, Angelina H. Lee and Veronica B. Michael; and her brother, Lucious Howard, Jr. Celestine leaves to cherish her loving memory her devoted daughter, Vanisha Celeste Woody, along with a host of nieces and nephews: Isaiah (Melissa), Todd, and Adrian Lee; Jade Good Lee; Tamara,Cierra Rachel, Matthew (Lena), Crystal, Sharon, and Candace Michael; and Diamond Howard. She will also be deeply missed by her closest friend, Roselyn Mendez and her husband Simon Anchundia, and their children, Tiffany (Gerber), Kiera, Shellyann, and Dayanara, who lovingly called her "Grandma," along with many other family members and dear friends who will forever cherish the memories they shared with her