Mirabelle Lanier Woods Roden

Mirabelle Lanier Woods Roden, of Houston, Texas, passed away on February 27, 2024, at the age of 87. She was born on August 28, 1936, in Valley Spring, Llano County, Texas, to Thomas Fowler Lanier and Nela Talley Basco. Mirabelle is preceded in death by her parents, Nela Talley Basco and Thomas Fowler Lanier; her first husband, George Clark Woods; and son, Dr. Mark T. Woods.

She is survived by her loving husband of 40 years, Jack Roden; her son, George Woods and wife Barbara of Houston, Texas; her daughter, Rosemary Payne of Austin, Texas; her sister, Johnnie Ewing of Lampasas, Texas; and her brother, Thomas Lanier of Cypress, Texas. Also, she is survived by her grandchildren: Andrew Woods, Kelsi Woods, Mark A. Woods, Cheri Stokley, Kelli Zilliox, William Payne, and Walker Payne. Additionally, she is survived by her great-grandchildren: Mason Peres, Emily Chapa, Bella Stokley, Haley Stokley, Parker Zilliox, George Woods, and Wren Woods.

While attending San Saba High School, she was a majorette in the band, and she was the first student elected to the National Honor Society. She graduated San Saba High School at the age of 16 in the class of 1953. She attended Tarleton State University, at that time, a two-year college. After graduation from TSU, she attended the University of Texas in Austin, Texas. During this time, she demonstrated her dedication to both academic excellence and community involvement by serving as the President of the Phi Mu sorority while pursuing her Bachelor of Education degree.

Mirabelle leaves behind a legacy of dedication to education. Mirabelle's professional journey in education was marked by significant achievements. She served as the Principal of Janowski Elementary and later as the Assistant Superintendent of HISD. Her true love was holding the position of Principal at Clifton Middle School for over 20 years, where her leadership and passion for nurturing young minds left a lasting impression.

Her commitment to furthering her knowledge and expertise in the field of education continued as she earned a Master's in Science from the University of Houston. Undoubtedly driven by her passion for education and a desire to make a lasting impact in her field, Mirabelle pursued a Doctorate in Education from the University of Houston where she published many articles and books on Multi-Cultural Education.

She found joy in traveling. She travelled all over the globe exploring new destinations and cultures, but she especially enjoyed the cruises she took with her beloved husband Jack and the many new friends they met.

Mirabelle's presence will be deeply missed, but her impact on the lives of those she touched will endure as a testament to her remarkable spirit and unwavering dedication to education and community.

A public visitation for Mirabelle was held Monday, March 4, 2024, at Grand View Funeral Home, 8501 Spencer Hwy, Pasadena, TX 77505. A celebration of life was held Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at Grand View Memorial Park, 8501 Spencer Hwy, Pasadena, TX 77505.