Black Trailblazers of Kitsap County exhibit logo
Rainie Woods in police uniform standing by a police car parked outside a building with large windows

Rainie Woods

Rainie Woods (Feb. 6, 1944 – Aug. 15, 2003)

Born in Hawkins, Texas, and raised in Seattle, Rainie Woods graduated from Garfield High School and served four years as an Air Force military police officer. In 1969 he joined the Bremerton Police Department as its first Black officer, and he served until 1991. His work as a juvenile detective emphasized prevention and relationships with young people. His partner, Greg Steele, recalled that their contrasting cowboy hats encouraged teenagers to approach them and share information that helped solve cases.

Woods received a PTSA Golden Acorn award in 1982, helped establish a residential center for youth in crisis, coached youth sports, and belonged to the American Legion and the NAACP. His daughter described neighbors’ efforts to keep him from moving into Manette, and Steele recalled racism within the department and the community.

Source: an obituary of Rainie Woods (August 2003) excerpted in the museum’s earlier biography; original publication details unconfirmed.

Close black-and-white portrait of Rainie Woods in a dark uniform jacket
New police recruit with raised right hand being sworn in beside an older man in a suit and glasses holding a paper

Photo: collection of the Kitsap History Museum, 2010.035.001.018.

Return to Trailblazers