Gilda Woods Becnel

1956 - 2025

Gilda Woods Becnel, born March 17, 1956, to the late Joyce Woods and Melvin Woods, Sr. She lived a life of resilience, love, and compassion.  Gilda passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, leaving behind a cherished legacy embraced by family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

From an early age, Gilda embraced her Christian faith, engaging in religious education and celebrating her first communion. As an adult she reaffirmed her devotion through baptism at St. Mary Missionary Baptist Church in Luling, Louisiana.

She pursued her education in the St. Charles Parish School System and later married her soul mate, Kermit Becnel. Together, they welcomed their beloved daughter, Danielle Becnel. Following Kermit’s passing, she and Lloyd Lee, Sr., were blessed with Lashia Lee and the late Lloyd Lee, Jr.

A devoted homemaker, Gilda later built a career in the hotel industry’s housekeeping sector. She found joy in bringing loved ones together through cooking, always offering a warm meal and an open door. Her kindness knew no bounds and she never met a stranger, and all who crossed her path were welcomed with open arms. With her radiant smile and generous spirit, she had a unique gift for brightening every room she entered.

She is preceded in death by her parents, the late Melvin, Sr., and Joyce Woods. September Fannie Williams, her husband, Kermit Becnel, son Lloyd, Jr. and two brothers, Brandon Woods, Sr., and Don Lear.

She leaves to cherish her memories, two daughters, Danielle Becnell (Jermaine) and Lashia Lee; devoted companion Virgil Howard, three sisters, Nadine Woods, Karen Mott, and Faith (Mark) Williams; two brothers, Melving Woods, Jr. and Samuel (Yvette) Joseph; seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren; two aunties, Marie Lagrange and Mary Ann Wright; Steven (Elvina) Lagrange; sister-in-law Tylene Woods and a host of other relatives and friends.

Relatives and friends of the family, Pastors, Officers and Members of the Historic Bethlehem Baptist Church and all neighboring Churches are invited to the Celebration of Life Services at 11:00am on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Historic Bethlehem Baptist Church, 14989 River Rd, Hahnville, LA  70057. Rev Rodney L. Johnson, Sr. Host Pastor and Rev. John White, Officiating.    Visitation 9am until time of service at the above-named Church.  Interment, Bethlehem Cemetery, Smith Street, Hahnville.  Final Arrangements  Entrusted to Patrick H. Sanders Funeral Home & Funeral Directors, LLC. 605 Main Street, Laplace, LA 70068. 985-359-1919. “Providing Care & Comfort is Our Highest Mission.”