Dr. Bill Woods Death & Obituary: Atlanta, GA – The medical world is mourning the profound loss of Dr. William G. “Bill” Woods, a trailblazing leader in pediatric hematology and oncology, who passed away on April 18, 2024, at the age of 77. A resident of Atlanta and Director of the South Carolina Cancer Center, Dr. Woods leaves behind a monumental legacy of compassion, innovation, and transformative leadership in the fight against childhood cancer.
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Early Life and Academic Excellence
Born on October 11, 1946, in Baltimore, Maryland, Dr. Woods discovered his passion for medicine early in life. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Bucknell University in 1968, and later received his MD from the University of Pennsylvania in 1972. He completed his pediatric residency at the University of Minnesota, followed by a fellowship in pediatric hematology and oncology at Cornell University—training that would launch a lifetime of impactful work in cancer research and treatment.
Pioneering Contributions in Pediatric Oncology
Dr. Woods began his academic career in 1977 at the University of Minnesota, where he contributed groundbreaking research on hereditary retinoblastoma, neuroblastoma screening, and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). He led a landmark clinical trial through the Children’s Cancer Group (CCG) that significantly improved treatment outcomes for AML, cementing his status as a visionary in pediatric cancer care.
He also held leadership roles in the Children’s Oncology Group (COG), helping guide national research priorities and clinical strategies.
Leadership at the South Carolina Cancer Center and Aflac Cancer Center
In 1996, Dr. Woods was appointed Director of the South Carolina Cancer Center, and in 2001, he became the inaugural Director of the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Under his stewardship, the center rose to national prominence as a leader in pediatric oncology.
He simultaneously served as Associate Director of the Winship Cancer Institute at Emory University (2001–2009), where he was instrumental in expanding research and clinical programs in bone marrow transplantation, sickle cell disease, and survivorship care.
A Visionary and Compassionate Advocate
Dr. Woods’ influence reached well beyond the clinic. As President of the American Society of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology (ASPHO) in 2006, he initiated long-term strategic improvements in care delivery and funding for sickle cell anemia. He also helped found the society’s Professional Development Committee, fostering the growth of future pediatric specialists.
With over 250 published works and countless accolades—including the ASPHO Distinguished Career Award in 2011—his academic and clinical contributions have left a lasting imprint on medicine.
Personal Courage and ALS Advocacy
In his final years, Dr. Woods battled amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) with characteristic resilience. Never one to stand on the sidelines, he became a passionate advocate for ALS awareness and research, working closely with I AM ALS and the ALS Association. He even enrolled in a phase 1 clinical trial, reflecting his lifelong commitment to advancing science in the face of personal adversity.
Legacy and Remembering a Life of Purpose
Dr. Bill Woods is survived by his loving wife, Kathleen, their sons Elliot and Andrew, and four grandchildren. A memorial service will be held this summer to honor his extraordinary life and contributions.
Dr. Woods is remembered not just for his scientific brilliance, but for his humility, kindness, and empowering leadership style. He often advised, “Hire good people. Nice people. And let them do their best work.” This philosophy defined his approach to both medicine and mentorship.
Conclusion: Honoring a Medical Giant
The passing of Dr. William G. Woods marks a significant loss for the global medical community. His groundbreaking work, deep compassion for patients, and leadership in pediatric oncology transformed countless lives. His legacy will continue to live on through the institutions he shaped, the doctors he mentored, and the families whose lives he touched.
Rest in peace, Dr. Bill Woods. Your contributions to science, healing, and humanity will never be forgotten.
