The great achievers are sometimes refreshingly modest; it is often those who have not made it to the top who are tiresome and conceited. John Woods, who died recently in his 96th year, was truly modest; of his achievement there can be no doubt.
Things went against him at the outset. Born near Ardglass, Co Down, of farming stock, he began to work on the farm having finished school at the age of 14. When the potato crop failed he went to Belfast to work with his uncle, an accountant. Beginning almost from scratch, he matriculated and went on to qualify as a chartered accountant in 1926.
At once he was offered a partnership in the firm of Magee and Hillan - Charles Magee was his uncle; the name Woods was added.
As business increased and the practice expanded, it was the young partner who was asked to take charge of a Dublin branch in 1938. Ten years later the Dublin firm became independent. Eventually, much enlarged, it was given residence in Woods House in Blackrock. Here, along with the normal business of a large accountancy firm, there is a training centre for future members of the profession, accommodating about 20.
What were the secrets of this achievement? Unusual acumen certainly, with a capacity for work which lasted into his 94th year; and integrity. John Woods gave clear proof, as do very many others in our country, that striking success in business does not elude those who are totally honest.
He also gave proof of the fact that a staunch Northerner can find a welcoming, encouraging environment for his talent in the South. All this was set in a life which was, at John's funeral, aptly described as patriarchal. He leaves six children, 23 grandchildren, seven great-great-grandchildren. He is survived by his dear wife Molly, whom he married 66 years ago. She came each day from her nursing home to be with him in hospital, as he awaited with equanimity the final moment. Through the dignity and spirit of resignation, manifest in both, shone the splendour of Christian matrimony.
The faith was the very fabric of these two lives. This was, no doubt, why many of John's business clients, trusting him and his serene outlook, also sought his help in difficulties that they met much beyond the scope of commerce. Their written testimonies sent to the family after his death showed his efficacy and their gratitude.
This was a true Northerner, whose family members were not alien to the national cause. His brother Seamus worked in close association with Michael Collins, eventually becoming a colonel in Ireland's first national Army.
M.O'C.