John Franklin Woodle, Sr

In Loving Memory of Mr. John Franklin “Frank” Woodle, Sr., a Remarkable Life Remembered.

On Saturday, August 5, 2023, the world bid farewell to Mr. John Franklin “Frank” Woodle, Sr., aged 95, who peacefully passed away at Tucker Hospice House in Kannapolis, NC.  Frank's legacy, marked by courage, dedication, and love, will forever resonate in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him.

Born in State Road, NC, to the late Charlie M. Woodle and Ella Crouse Woodle, Frank's journey through life was one of endurance and steadfastness.  His childhood years in Winston-Salem during the hard times of the 1930s prepared him for his unwavering kindness and appreciation of a well-built life.

Frank served with pride in the US Army Air Corps from 1945 to 1947, stationed in Tokyo at the close of World War II. As a Military Policeman, he served what would become the US Air Force as a part of the US Occupational Force in Japan.

After working various trucking jobs (sometimes multiple jobs at the same time) Frank joined Pilot Freight Lines in 1959 where he became a part of the Teamsters Local 391. After a 30-year career he retired from Transcon Freight Lines. Post-retirement, he chose to “keep busy” by spending 15 years as a school bus driver for Forsyth County Schools, not only earning extra income for travel but also touching the lives of countless students.  School field trips with young children were his favorite.

Frank's love story with his late wife, Nonnie Ruth Woodle, was an enduring testament to love's lasting power. Married at Calvary Baptist Church in 1951 when the church was still at “Buxton Street”, their union spanned over 70 years, marked by shared joys and unwavering companionship.  After having raised two young men, they poured time and energy into impacting the lives of their grandchildren.

In addition to his beloved Ruth, Frank was preceded in death by his son, John Franklin Woodle, Jr., and his brother, Davis Woodle. He leaves behind a rich tapestry of love and memories in the hearts of his son, Matthew (Lori) Kent Woodle; cherished grandchildren, Alexandra Ruth Woodle, Emma Katherine Woodle, and Harrison Cooper Woodle; and numerous special nieces and nephews who were fortunate to have him in their lives.

A final tribute to Frank's remarkable journey will take place with a graveside service on Saturday, August 12, 2023, at 12:00 PM, at Forsyth Memorial Park – Mausoleum Chapel. Pastor Truett Williams will lead the service, with a time of remembrance scheduled from 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM at the cemetery, offering friends and family an opportunity to share stories and offer their condolences.

In honor of Frank's dedication to service and faith, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Calvary Baptist Church Global Missions Offering. Contributions can be sent to 134 S. Peace Haven Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27104, or made online at https://calvarynow.com/ministries/missions/. Through these contributions, Frank's legacy of compassion and caring will continue to make a difference in the world.

As we mourn the physical loss of Mr. John Franklin “Frank” Woodle, Sr., let us also celebrate the incredible journey he undertook, the lives he touched, and the enduring love he shared. His memory will forever be a beacon of inspiration and a reminder of the profound impact one life can have on the world around us.  He is now sharing time with his beloved wife in everlasting Heaven.

Online condolences may be made at www.hayworth-miller.com