Charles Michael Woody Sr., 51, known to most simply as “Woody,” passed away unexpectedly on June 25, 2026, with his children present.

Woody was loved by many for his larger-than-life personality. Everywhere he went, he was the center of attention. His quick wit could make anyone laugh, and if that wasn’t enough, he would do just about anything to brighten someone’s day.

Raised along the banks of the Ocoee River, Woody carried his love for home with him throughout his life. If you ever had the chance to sit down and talk with him, chances are you’d hear stories about his “prime years” playing football, basketball, and baseball at Polk County High School, where he earned multiple athletic honors before graduating with the Class of 1992.

While he was proud of his accomplishments, nothing compared to the pride he had in his children. If you asked Woody what he was most proud of, his answer was always the same: “Sarah Margaret and Michael.” He never missed an opportunity to brag about their accomplishments and the people they had become.

Woody found joy in the simple things. He loved playing golf—always in his Chacos, of course—enjoyed weekend breakfasts with his daughter, Meggie, and treasured the time he spent helping his son, Michael. Although he spent much of his time working in Atlanta, when he was home you could almost always find him relaxing on the porch at the river lot, where he felt most at peace.

He was preceded in death by his father, Michael Lee “Big Moe” Woody; his mother, Linda Joyce Woody; his maternal grandparents, Thomas Anderson Lee and Willadeane Fugate Lee; his paternal grandparents, Charles Murry Woody and Mary Ruth Woody; his sister, Christine Woody-Kersey; and his uncle, Philip “Boogie” Woody.

Woody leaves behind his daughter—or, as he lovingly called her, his “mini me”—Meggie Woody; his son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Kyra Woody; and his beloved granddaughter, Gracelyn Kate Woody, who brought him immeasurable joy. He also leaves behind many extended family members and countless friends who will forever remember his laughter, his stories, and the love he had for the people in his life.

Though his time here was far too short, Woody’s humor, unwavering love for his family, and unforgettable spirit will continue to live on in everyone who knew him.

His family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Higgins Funeral Home of Benton.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.higginsfunerals.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Higgins Funeral Home of Benton.