Kenny Stancil “Woody” Woodlief

On Friday, October 15, 2021, Senior Master Sergeant Ret. Kenny S. Woodlief – Woody, known to all – died at age 68 after a short battle with cancer at Menorah Hospital in Overland Park, KS and was a resident of Lawrence, KS for 21 years.

Woody was born on January 28, 1953 in Louisburg, NC. He graduated from Youngsville High School in Youngsville, NC, then completed an Associates Degree in Communications from the Community College of the Air Force in 1994. He served in the United States Air Force for 26 years and retired in 1998. He then worked as a program/project manager in communications for the last 22 years.

Woody was bigger than life. He had a loving, joyful, energetic personality, and a kindness and smile for everyone. He was disciplined and active in every part of his life. He volunteered his time as an official for USA Swimming, built homes for those in need with Christmas in October, and served the Boy Scouts of America for 15 years. He dearly loved his family and friends and never met a stranger.

He was preceded in death by his father, Stancil Woodlief, and an infant brother.

He is survived by LeeAnne, his wife of 31 years, his two children, April and Kenny, his mother, Mattie Cash, his twin brother, Benny, his sister, Deborah, brother, Charles, sister, Charlotte, and many grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Everyone is welcome to attend a service, celebrating his life at 10:30am, at Connect Church on W 31st St in Lawrence, KS, and a 1:00pm graveside Military service at the Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery in Fort Leavenworth, KS, on Friday, October 29, 2021.

Family and friends are welcome to gather at Haymarket Event Center, 618 Cherokee, Leavenworth, Kansas, following the graveside service.

The family suggests memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society or the Wounded Warrior Project, sent in care of the funeral home.

Messages & Condolences

From Harshal Shah...

Woody, I never got to fully express to you how much of a mentor you were to me over the years. I will deeply miss out conversations and your always positive outlook on life. Just know that your memory will live on with me every time I say “yes dear” to my wife and mentor others. Gone but never forgotten. Miss you bud!

From Hindman Family...

Our familt sends our deepest condoences to Woodys family.
Woody and LeAnn are fixtures in the swimming community.
Woody brought warmth and humor and genuine caring to the pool deck. LeAnn and Woodys commitment to the kids is an inspiration.
Thank you for your love and devotion.

From Thomas C Williams...

Woody. Gosh I am really sorry about that loss. He was one of the greats that I worked with from the beginning of my Sprint career. I remember working with him at the bunker, him working at nights. teaching and being open. Then later in my career we crossed again and man the guy just never stopped. I loved helping him get things done and move. I will miss him and I wish your family the best.

From Rick Boyd...

I was deeply saddened and shocked to learn of Woody’s passing, as I had no idea that he had been ill. My connection with Woody was as a fellow swim official. I shadowed with Woody at my very first swim meet. I learned more about swim officiating that day than I ever had before or since. I later worked a dozen or more meets with Woody. He became a friend and mentor of mine. While I enjoy working with all my other fellow officials, I particularly enjoyed working with Woody. He brought joy professionalism and fun to every meet he ever worked. He was an icon in the swim community and he will be sorely missed for years to come. My sincerest condolences to his family.

From Doug and Janice Cook...

Dear LeeAnne & Family,
Whenever we think of Woody a smile comes to our faces. We had the pleasure of working with Woody for many years at Sprint. He always gave 100% at work and play. Only he could keep us on track on our river trips. He was very proud of his family and shared many of your life events! Heaven got a good one, he will be missed. God be with you all during this difficult time

From Bridget Kelly (KCSa/movy masters)...

Woody was an amazing inspiration to me as a swimmer and coach! I loved when he was on deck at a meet. I will miss him dearly. Prayers and hugs to LeAnn and family!

From Adam Gibson...

So sad for Woody’s passing, and so blessed to have known him. One of the kindest, most cheerful people I’ve ever known. His presence will be missed.

From Gail DeGood-Guy...

My deepest sympathies to Woody’s family. He and I were stationed together at the CSPO, Scott AFB, Illinois. May God watch over you all during this most difficult time. RIP Woody. You served your country well.

From Benny Eugene Woodlief (Twin)...

Here’s thinking of you all day, I know you love as I loved you I will miss our phone call. God’s blessings we will be together again. Love you so much ?

From Lisa & Joe Castner...

Woody, you are kindest person I know and you lived life to the fullest. No matter where you went no one was a stranger to you. Your smile and that laugh… oh that laugh just filled a room. You are my friend and I will miss you. You keep spreading that sunshine my friend – until we meet again. To the family – Woody talked about you all often. The smile that came across his face talking about you all was precious. LeAnn – you were and are the center of his universe and he will be with you always!! Prayers and Love to all of you during this very difficult time.

From Barry Linden...

I loved working and getting to know Woody! He always brought energy and positivity to everything he did. I greatly admired him, and look forward to meeting up with him again in heaven. God bless you Woody, and please bring comfort to the family.

From Jeff & Cathy Cook...

From the time I met you to the day you left this world, I could not have know a better, kinder and more gentle soul to have called friend and brother. You will be missed but we will see you again one day. Until then you keep heaven running smoothly! Sending our love, prayers and condolences to LeAnn and family.

From Barbara Clary...

So sorry to hear of Woody’s passing. He was such a sweet caring person. So full of live and passion. I’m sure he has things shaken and stirring in heaven. God Bless. Cherish the wonderful memories. Our thoughts are with you and your family.

Messages are closed.