Woods Family Says Thanks

The family of Foresters coach Gary Woods, who passed away February 19, has asked us to pass along their thanks for the great outpouring of love they have received from the baseball community. Following is a statement they put out today. It includes information about a memorial event for Gary on Saturday, February 28 at 1:30 at the Santa Barbara City College baseball field, where Gary’s retired number proudly hangs. Thank you.

Dear Friends,

The Woods family would like to extend our gratitude to the community of Santa Barbara for the tremendous outpouring of love and support due to the recent passing of Gary Woods.

It would be impossible to acknowledge every call or kind gesture that we have received in the last few days, but we will make every effort to do so as time permits.

Your response to our loss has served as a poignant reminder that despite the remarkable beauty of our city, the real magic can be found in the people that make this area so special.

To the friends and family across the country that we’ve heard from, thank you for reaching out and taking the time to offer your condolences and prayers.

To Gary’s extended baseball family, the Santa Barbara Foresters, the Chicago White Sox, and the countless players, coaches, and scouts who share his passion for the game, we cannot thank you enough for the stories, the anecdotes, and the unconditional love that you have provided during this very difficult time.

There will be a public memorial service on Saturday, February 28, at  1:30 PM at Pershing Park, home of the SBCC Vaqueros, which is located at 100 Castillo Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93110.

Immediately following the public memorial service, there will be a private celebration of life gathering and barbeque at the Santa Barbara Carriage Museum, located inside Pershing Park at 129 Castillo Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101.

With appreciation,

The Family of Gary Woods