James Ross Woody

James Ross Woody, age 74, passed away in the early morning of February 6, 2024 at UC Medical Center.   

He was born to the late Robert and Katherine (Rieves) Woody on September 9, 1949 in Columbia, Tennessee.   Always a great athlete in any sport, James Ross excelled in football under Coach Jim Cartwright. James received numerous awards as the Captain of Columbia Central High School, class of 1967 football team. Affectionately known as “Hunk”, James loved his teammates and has always considered them lifelong friends. A proud moment for James and his family was receiving a scholarship to play football for the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. He always appreciated his Coach Bill Battle. Coach called James a great leader on his senior team that went 11-1 and 4th in the nation. James was very honored to be selected Co-Captain of the Tennessee Vols. After graduating from the University of Tennessee, he went on to a career in railroad management for L&N, Seaboard Coastline, B&O and CSX that moved his family from Indiana, to Tennessee, to Alabama, back to Indiana. His last move was to Ohio, where the family has happily lived for over 35 years. James retired from CSX after over 40 years as Trainmaster.  

James is survived by his high school sweetheart and loving wife of 53 years, Marsha (Thompson) Woody. They met in Jr. High at a dance in the Riverside Armory. After six years of dating, James married “My Girl” March 21, 1971. They had a wonderful life enjoying their church and families’ activities. James loved people; he never met a stranger. He was always eager to help( it wasn’t uncommon for him to pick up a homeless person or hitchhiker and take them to breakfast.  He loved to make people laugh. One of his biggest challenges in life was Marsha - more than likely, this was the reason many guys called him “St. James.” James was very proud of his children - Will (Carolyn) Woody, Ben (Courtney) Woody, Anna (Dave) Irvin, all of Cincinnati - and his grandchildren: Adi (Will), Carman, Payton, Calvin (Ben) and CJ (Anna). He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Bob Woody, Ronnie Woody, and Frances Woody.  James lover all his dogs and was often found playing with them or bringing them for rides in his truck. Rocky Top and Smokey were his constant companions. Smokey passed away just two days after James to join his best buddy in heaven.   

A visitation will take place at Mueller Funeral Home, 6791 Tylersville Road, Mason, Ohio 45040 on Saturday, February 17, 2024 from 10:00am-11:00am with a memorial service to follow at 11:00am.  All are welcome to attend a reception following the service. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.muellerfunerals.com. Donations are welcomed at American Diabetes Association and ASPCA in James’ memory. 

A very special thanks to all the doctors, nurses, and staff at UC Medical Center, Drake, and Ridgeway Towers, who showed tremendous care and compassion for James and the family.