John William Woody

John William Woody, formerly of Dothan, Alabama, passed away on January 25, 2024 in Overland Park, Kansas. Born on September 15, 1928, in Spruce Pine, North Carolina, to the late Milas and Corrie Woody. He was a man deeply rooted in faith and patriotism, traits that defined his character and life journey.

John's early life in the mountains of North Carolina set the stage for a life of service and love of country. After completing his education in his hometown, he joined the United States Air Force, where he dedicated 29 years to serving his nation with distinction. Rising through the ranks, John retired as a Chief Master Sergeant, with his final assignment at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. His military career was highlighted by three tours in the Panama Canal Zone and various other bases including Korea.

In 1979, following his retirement, John and Mae moved to Dothan. His work history and association involvement were as impressive as they were varied, but it was his personal life that truly shone. John was married to the love of his life, Willa Mae Woody, for over 70 years, a testament to their strong and loving partnership that ended only with her passing in 2020. Together, they exemplified the beauty of a great marriage, filled with mutual respect, love, and shared interests. In 2017, the couple relocated to Kansas to be closer to family.

John was a man of many passions. He loved to read, finding solace and adventure within the pages of books. He enjoyed his early morning walks and watching TV shows from the 1970's. His love for driving cars was well-known, as was his active involvement in his church. John's faith was a cornerstone of his life, guiding him through the good times and the bad. Alabama held a special place in his heart, and he often remarked that it was a great place to retire—a sentiment that reflected his deep connection to the community and the joy he found in his later years. He and Mae were active members of Calvary Baptist Church while they resided in Dothan.

He is survived by his son, James (Donnah) Woody, his granddaughters, Caroline Woody of Overland Park, KS and Sarah (Djordje) Minic, and by his great granddaughter, Millie, of Highlands Ranch, CO. John's interests and personal life were a reflection of a man who lived fully. He was patriotic and strong in his faith, and his love for his wife and family was unwavering. To know John was to know a man who was faithful, loving, and always ready for the next adventure. His presence and radiant smile will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

A graveside service with military honors will be held in John's honor at 11 am on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at Sunset Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation which honors the sacrifice of first responders and military personnel. This final salute will be a fitting tribute to a man who served his country with honor and lived his life with a faith-filled heart.