Mr. Laurie Woody Jr.

With hearts full of gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the peaceful passing of Mr. Laurie Woody Jr. on Friday, June 20, 2025, at the blessed age of 92. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, July 5, 2025, 11:00 a.m. at Ray Williams Memorial Chapel, 301 N. Howard Avenue, Tampa, FL 33606. Interment will follow in Rest Haven Memorial Park Cemetery, 4615 E. Hanna Avenue, Tampa, FL 33610.

Born April 16, 1933, in Tallahassee, Florida, Laurie was a pillar of strength, wisdom, and quiet dignity to all who knew him. Laurie attended Lincoln High School, where he developed a strong work ethic and a deep sense of responsibility. After high school, he earned his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and began his lifelong career in the trucking industry. In 1962, he relocated to Tampa, Florida, where he faithfully worked for Grocery Truck Driver Affiliated of Florida until his retirement. His dedication to his work was only matched by his devotion to his family.

On June 19, 1962, Laurie married the love of his life, Helen Cooper, in his hometown of Tallahassee, Florida. Together they built a home grounded in love, faith, and southern hospitality. Laurie especially enjoyed watching sports and sitting down to enjoy Helen’s delicious home-cooked southern dinners with his one and only daughter Jeanie—a cherished tradition that brought their family together.

Laurie was preceded in death by: his mother, Agnes Williams; father, Laurie Woody Sr.; his beloved sisters, Essie Mae, Ella Mae, and Jessie; and brother, Robert Woody.

Laurie’s legacy continues through: his beloved wife, Helen; daughter, Jeanie; his treasured grandchildren, Gerald (Tonia), Gary, Kelvin Sr., Knawza, Lionel, and Terrance Sr.; and great-grandchildren, Antonia, Brandi, Allexa, Alisha, KeThanial, Jemela, Jontavious, Jonneia, KaLani, Kelvin Jr., Terrance II, Terrance III, TaKwan, Shatera, Jeneka, Jenaya, Jeremiah, Lionel II, DeNena, Arlisha, and Nariah; his legacy extends even further through his great-great-grandchildren, Isabella, Noah, Norielle, Nolan, LaLai, Journee, and Nayeli; sister, Bertha; sister-in-law, Daisy; brothers-in-law, Ralph and Reliford; as well as a host of nieces and nephews who cherished his steady presence in their lives.

He also held a special bond with his spiritual God - children, Rev. Nathaniel and Keria Smith, Rev. Willie Williams, Ruthie Sampson, Tony Wilson, Ladreda Spencer, Corretta, Angela, Grace Smith, Sharon Thompson, and Joyce Bellamy; and sister, Gloria McCants. He was deeply honored to be embraced by his adopted family: Bishop Maxwell and Family, and Evangelist Dilworth and Family. Among his most cherished relationships were: his adopted granddaughter, Satonya, and great-grandchild; his special adopted nephew, Terry Griffin, who all brought him immense joy and pride; and a dear special friend of the family, Barbara Slappy, also remained a close and faithful presence throughout his life.

A man of quiet strength, deep faith, and unwavering love for his family, Laurie Woody Jr. was a blessing to everyone who knew him. His life reflected humility, honor, and devotion. Though he has departed from this earthly home, the values he instilled, the memories he created, and the love he gave will continue to live on for generations.

May he rest peacefully in the arms of the Lord.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 3, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Ray Williams Funeral Home, 301 N. Howard Avenue, Tampa, FL 33606.

Arrangements are entrusted to Ray Williams Funeral Home, Rhodes & Northern, Owners. www.raywilliamsfuneralhome.com

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