Dora Lyons-Woods, 95, of Hamden, CT, passed away on August 24, 2016.

Dora was born in Rocky Mount, NC on January 24, 1921, and while she always considered herself a "Tarheel," she lived in New Haven, CT for more than 70 years. She was active in her church, the Antioch Firebaptized Holiness Church. Dora's membership of her church for more than 50 years made her one of the original Mothers of that congregation. She was also a faithful volunteer with the Senior Companions Program, after retiring from employment at Yale University.

Dora is survived by a son, James Lyons; daughters-in-law, Jocelyn Lyons and Lynn Woods (Larry Walters); granddaughters, Alicia Davis (Stan), Arlette Yonkers (Vernon), Kalia Woods and Brandi West (Keith); grandsons, Schirra Mullings, James Lyons, Jr. (Shenia), Jamal Lyons (Brandy) and Jack Lyons (Hyunjee); 16 great grandchildren; 7 great-great grandchildren; a brother, Harold Pittman; and a host of other relatives and friends.

She was predeceased by her companion, George Woods, Sr.; daughter, Beatrice Katrina Mullings; and a son, George Woods, Jr.

A Homegoing celebration for Dora will be held Thursday, September 1, 2016, at 11:00 AM at Curvin K. Council Funeral Home, 128 Dwight St., New Haven. Viewing will be held from 10:00-11:00 AM. Burial will be in Beaverdale Memorial Park.