MIDDLEPORT — Woodrow "Woody" William Call Jr., 84, of Middleport, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, Aug. 8, 2016.
He was born Jan. 8, 1932, in Middleport, son of the late Woodrow "Red" William Call Sr. and Grace Evelyn (Motley) Call. He was married to the love of his life, Mary Ann, for 62 years. He was a loving father and foster parent, and sport coach of many kids and adults that he loved as his own. He was retired from the steel factory, Foote Mineral, and a preacher since the late 1970s. He attended Ash Street Church in Middleport.
He is survived by his children, Debbie (Tim) Cundiff, Woody (Christy) Call, David Call, Steve (Debbie) Call, Mikey (Heather Whaley) Call, Cindy (Kevin) Bush and Karen (Jeremy) Gilbert; daughter-in-law Cheryl Call; 19 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Nancy Ackerman; brother-in-law David (Annabell) Michael; and several nieces and nephews.
When in high school, Woody excelled in both football and baseball, being captains of both squads. His real love was baseball. After high school, he played semi-pro baseball making the all-star team. As noted by a local sports writer years ago, Woody had an arm like Johnny Bench and written across the top of Woody's chest protector were the words, "Thou shall not steal." Several pro teams were interested in him, including the Cincinnati Reds. However, Woody made the decision to stay in Middleport with his family and the rest is history.
For the next 60 years, he coached kids and adults, starting from Pee-Wee, Little League, Pony League, Babe Ruth League, men's softball/ fast-pitch baseball, and women's/girls softball leagues. His teams always won numerous league championships and tournaments. His coaching style and work ethic not only made kids/adults good ballplayers, but helped after playing ball to be pillars in the community. We will forever be grateful.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ann Call; brother Donnie Call; son Phillip "Del" Call; and nieces Becky Ackerman and Tracy Reitmire.
Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 13, 2016, at Ash Street Church in Middleport with Pastor Mark Morrow officiating. Visiting hours will 6-9 p.m. Friday at Anderson McDaniel Funeral Home in Middleport, and 10-11 a.m. Saturday at the Ash Street Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Middleport Youth League, c/o Dave Boyd at Farmers Bank in Mason, W.Va.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
James Klein
January 20, 2024
Woody was my little league coach for two years in 1970/71. It was a great summer culminating in the Middleport LL championship! RIP coach!
August 18, 2016
So sorry for your loss, praying that God soothes your souls until you meet again. -Robin Dugan-Wolfe
Chuck Allensworth
August 16, 2016
Condolences from the whole Allensworth family as we've known Woody since before I was born. I last spoke to him at Middleport Park a couple years ago when I was visiting down home. My Mom just went to visit him a couple weeks ago at the center. I want to echo Mick's sentiments below and God bless the family.
Mick Davenport
August 14, 2016
Woody Call was a great teacher and inspiration to the youth of this county. Thanks Woody for volunteering your time and skills to help us all be better sports players and better people.
Patty Norford
August 13, 2016
I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. God be with you and bless you in your time of grief. I stated the other day that this seems to be the year for the loss of some very special people in our lives. (((hugs)))
allen oiler
August 13, 2016
rest in peace old friend
Ralph Snider
August 12, 2016
May the dear Lord bless you and your family
Shaula Laudermilt
August 12, 2016
This is one man I have known all my life and he was a great one that will not be forgotten. Sorry for your loss kids.
Goldie Wolford
August 12, 2016
R.I.P my friend. Fly with the angels!!
Beth Harrison
August 12, 2016
Love you grandpa❤
Rick Hinzman
August 12, 2016
Sorry for your loss old buddy
Woody Call
August 12, 2016
Gone but not forgotten.
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Funeral services provided by:
Anderson McDaniel Funeral Homes – Middleport264 South Second Avenue, Middleport, OH 45760
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