News : VGH Legacy Awards - Dr. G.R. & Coral Belle Woodhouse

Dr. G. R. & Coral Belle Woodhouse 

Dr. G. R. Woodhouse was a Physician and Surgeon in Vinton for over 46 years. He was Treasurer of the Benton County Medical Association. Dr. Woodhouse moved to Vinton and began practice in August of 1913. He will never forget his first month in Vinton, stating …"I remember it was August of 1913, because my total receipts for the month were fifty cents."

Dr. Woodhouse was a Virginia Gay Hospital Board Member from 1933- 1959 and served as president of the board for 12 years until his passing in 1959. In the late '40s, Dr. Woodhouse was on the Board that made the decision to construct a new hospital in Vinton. While reading through the early board of directors' books, it was notable that most of our early board of directors and leaders passed while during their service to VGH, their commitment is immeasurable. In March of 1956, Dr. Woodhouse led the meeting of hiring George Garwood. George replaced the retiring Nettie Burke.

Dr. Woodhouse's wife, Coral Belle Woodhouse, was a community member and activist. She was a member of the Federation of Women's Clubs. Other members included: Lora Lentz and Francis Miller. Virginia Gay Memorial Hospital closed its doors on Jan. 2, 1926 due to lack of funds to care for patients and maintain the building. The Federation of Women's Clubs had a goal of $3,000 to support the reopening of the hospital and $3661.30 was raised. A statement from the Federation of Women's Clubs said, "We close our campaign with the absolute knowledge that the hospital is really wanted by practically everybody within a reasonable distance from our town… The hospital is an actual necessity to the welfare of our community and it should be re-opened 2 with the least possible delay." After closing its doors for a year and a half, the Virginia Gay Hospital was re-opened on September 27, 1927.

Dr. and Mrs. Woodhouse significantly impacted the course and viability of health care in our community. Their early vision is remarkable. It is with gratitude and honor that we name Dr. G. R. Woodhouse and Coral Belle Woodhouse with the VGH Founders Class.

Their grandson, Dr. Alan Woodhouse and wife Janet were in attendance to receive a certificate of appreciation.