Harry “Earl” Woodcock, 89, of Jesup, died Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at his residence surrounded by his family under the care of Hospice of South Georgia.
Born January 18, 1935, in Patterson, he was a son of the late Otis and Estelle Rowland Woodcock. A native of Pierce County, he had lived in Wayne County for the past 60 years.
He married the love of his life September 5, 1959. Their dedication and love for one another lasted 64 years and was like no other.
He struck out on his own at age 15, working a variety of jobs such as with Armour Packing Company in Jacksonville, FL, the railroad, Waynline, Wayne County Road Department where he helped build many roads in the county and was one of the main operators working Jaycee Landing, Harper Gas and later retiring from Hendrix Hauling following 17 years of employment as a heavy equipment operator.
A wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, he loved spending time with loved ones and telling his work history stories. He was a very hard worker, who taught his children a great worth ethic and that to have what you wanted and needed in life, you have to work hard for it. Last but not least, in his eyes, family was always first.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Joseph “Joey” Woodcock; a grandson, Kristopher Clayton Sweat; his aunt and uncle by whom he was raised, Jack and Eunice Woodcock and his brother and sister-in-law, James and Wylene Woodcock.
Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Freida M. Woodcock; two daughters and a son-in-law, Rita Bennett, Jesup and Sheila and Jeff Grantham, Odum; three grandchildren, Eron (Joann) Bennett, New Port Richey, FL and Emily Bennett and Maranda (Lucas) Smiley, both of Jesup; five great-grandchildren, Hunter Bennett, Zayda Sweat, Raylan Garrison, Landon Smiley and River Bennett; a first cousin with whom he was raised, Alyne Leggett, Brunswick; special cousins, Harry and Anna Lane and Gene and Susie Lane, all of Jesup and several nieces, nephews and other relatives.
Visitation will be held from 1-2 p.m. Friday, June 14, at the funeral home.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, June 14, from the chapel of Hart Funeral Home in Blackshear with the Rev. Dale Bange officiating.
Interment will follow in the New Home Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of South Georgia 1625 Sunset Blvd. Jesup, Georgia 31545 or charity of your choice.
Sympathy may be expressed by signing online at www.hartfh.com.
Hart Funeral Home of Blackshear is in charge of arrangements.
