Harrison Charles Woodruff

ROCKY MOUNT – Harrison Charles Woodruff, age 75, passed away on Wednesday, March 15, 2023. Harrison was born the younger son of Julia "Joy" Caggiano and Harry Woodruff in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on July 25, 1947. While in Philadelphia he met and fell in love with Christina "Tina" Lalli and in 1976 they married. Harrison and Tina relocated for his job with Hardee's and at almost each relocation they took away a little more than what they had arrived with. In Buffalo, NY they braved the cold winters and welcomed their first son, Robert. Shortly after they moved to Detroit, MI and then to Lexington, KY where they were blessed with their second son, Brandon. Finally, they moved to the location of the Hardee's headquarters – Rocky Mount, NC – where they rounded out their family with a daughter, Katherine "Katie". Rocky Mount was the place they decided to love and call home.
Harrison was an active father, often getting involved in his sons' soccer and supporting his daughter's artistic endeavors. Harrison was also engaged with the community, having never met a stranger. He and Tina developed strong friendships during their time in Rocky Mount. And while these friendships sometimes grew apart, the occasional encounter around town always reignited that bond as though no time had passed.
After a life filled with hard work in various roles, Harrison happily retired. While in retirement and as expected, he picked up hobbies. But these weren't just any hobbies, they often mirrored those of his closest friends which is a testament to how involved he was with those he loved. Near the end of his time here he had become an avid photographer, computer and technology enthusiast, and horrible drone pilot. Harrison also enjoyed the finer things in life! There was no food or drink that was too fancy for him. His discerning and sophisticated taste often made for some interesting and fun dinner dates.
He also shared his love of nature with his children, including many memorable camping trips and beach visits. As Harrison got older, he continued to want to explore nature. Sometimes he became a little too adventurous on his excursions. His trips were always memorable and after hearing the stories, Harrison's children were relieved he had returned! He was especially blessed to travel with his closest friends and family, who shared his love for nature and adventure. Harrison's highlights of these excursions would be shared through carefully orchestrated productions of photos and music. And yet the most memorable picture is that of the smile he had while sharing these snapshots with all of us.
Harrison was preceded in death by his soulmate, Tina. He has been reunited with her and we are comforted knowing he is at peace.
Harrison is survived by his sons, Robert (Monika) Woodruff, and Brandon (Cheryl) Woodruff, and his daughter, Katie Dutch. He is also survived by his older brother Lou (Tina) Woodruff and his dearest, lifelong friends Gary Craig, Joey Floyd, and Jim and Rebecca Teismann. He leaves behind five grandchildren: The firstborn – Jadyn – whom he was most protective over, Derek who shares Harrison's giving nature and love for soccer, Archer who says Pops gave the best hugs, Piper to whom Harrison referred to as 'Princess', and his littlest spitfire Bria who reminded him so much of Tina.
A Celebration of Harrison's Life will be held on Saturday, April 1, 2023, at 3:00 PM in the Chapel of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services. Visitation with the family will be from 2:00 PM to 2:45 PM prior to the service in the Atrium of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, it is requested that you share a memory of Harrison so that his family and friends may be reminded of just how special he was. Please send your memories to RememberingHarrison@gmail.com or post at www.wheelerwoodlief.com, where you may also share condolences.
Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.