2022 HOMETOWN HEROES MAGAZINE

2022 Hometown HEROES Magazine LINCOLN DAILY NEWS May / June 2022 Page 27 R obert J. Woods graduated in 1948 from the University of Illinois Law School, entering into a partnership with his father Charles H. Woods, who practiced law in Logan County for more than 50 years. Following his father’s death in 1958 Robert practiced alone until 1961 when Roger W. Thompson became associated with him. Thompson left the firm in 1972 upon becoming Logan County State’s Attorney. Robert J. Woods spent considerable time involved with trial work with his concentration being in real estate, estate planning, wills and trusts. He served as president of the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital Board of Directors and was active in Trinity Episcopal Church, serving one or more terms on the Rectory. He was a regular Sunday attendee at services and helped the church with legal issues which were, fortunately, few. Woods was active in several community organizations, including the Elks, and as superintendent of the Lincoln Park District. Later in 1972 Woods entered into partnership with William C. Bates Jr., and William B. Bates later joined the firm in 1979. Bob was no longer doing trial work but rather was doing transactional work in the office for clients. Woods, and Bates Sr. mentored Bill Bates, being generous in many ways including his time to help Bates learn how to become a better lawyer. Both seniors cut back in their work pretty quickly after Bill Bates Jr. had been there for just a few years, and the seniors took it easier. Woods had the reputation of being honest and straight forward, admirable traits in any attorney. He did not beat around the bush but simply told it like it was. He was knowledgeable about the law and dedicated to helping his clients. He was diligent and prompt in completing his work. Practicing law is not necessarily what made Bob a Home Town Hero, but that is not in any way intended to lessen the importance of his contributions to the community through his law practice. Robert J. “Bob” and Joan “Jo” Woods: Hometown Heroes! Joan and Robert J. Woods Continue 8