ROE D. WOODY, 85 ROCKFORD – Roe D. Woody, 85, of Rockford passed away Monday, Feb. 1, 2010, at home, surrounded by his family. Born July 19, 1924, in Wild Cherry, Ark., to Elvin and Agnes (Guthrie) Woody. Served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Married Leta Heflin on Sept. 13, 1946. Employed at Chrysler in Belvidere, retiring in 1991, and was a proud member of UAW Local 1268, serving as chief steward. “Woody” learned to cook in the Navy. He owned cafes in Lepanto and Marked Tree, Ark., and never turned anyone away because they couldn’t afford to pay. A devoted and loving husband and father, he was a big man who was compassionate and understanding. A source of strength to his family and friends. Survivors include wife, Leta; sisters, Gayona Ramsey and Bobbie Stark; children, Denis Woody, David (Tina) Woody, Donald (Gail) Woody, Dana (Charlie) Peters, Damon (Rhonda) Woody, Daryl (Tanya) Woody and Delana Woody; grandchildren, Troy, Shane, Joshua R., Lori, Toni, Michael, Brandon, Misty, Rex, Danielle, Brittany, Joshua L., Rachal, Jolene, Megan, Stephen, Jenna, Taylor, Jesse and Shaylyn; great-grandchildren, Sommer, Ian, Jeffery, Jeremy, Jordan, Leta, Kyra, Tyler, Hayden, Landen and Jameson; great-great-grandchild, Chloe; and numerous relatives and friends. Predeceased by parents; sisters, M.E. (Beth), Ida Mae, Claudine and Lucille; infant son, Dallas; and grandson, Christopher. Memorial service in his honor at 1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 7, in Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N. Alpine Road, Machesney Park, with visitation from noon to time of service; the Rev. Ron C. Meyer will officiate. Cremation rites will be accorded. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your charity of choice. Online condolences to mem.com.

Published by Rockford Register Star from Feb. 5 to Feb. 11, 2010.