Jack Phillip Woods

Jack Phillip Woods, 94, of Smithville, Missouri passed away on December 19, 2024.

Born on January 30, 1930 on his family’s farm in Smithville, MO. Jack was the second of three children born to Fred and Rosalie (Bowman) Woods. After graduating from Smithville High-school in 1947, he attended The University of Texas, in Austin, TX and William Jewell College in Liberty, MO. He enlisted in the United States Air Force 9/17/1950, serving in active duty from 03/10/1951 to 12/09/1952 at Bergstrom Air Force Base in Austin, TX attaining the rank of technical sergeant. Upon his return to civilian life, he served in the reserves until 1956. Throughout his life, Jack never lost his passion for patriotism.

Jack had a successful business career with Farmland Industries, TWA, Hydro-Carbon55 Trading (Spring, TX) and Federal Express (Memphis, TN), retiring in 1995. He held positions of major responsibility in the petroleum aviation and environmental industries. His career allowed him and his family to travel the world including Jerusalum, Hawaii, Alaska (one his favorites) amongst MANY other places.

He obtained his private pilot’s license, flew light aircraft, enjoyed watching air shows and even took an honor flight to Washington DC specifically for veterans.

Over the years, Jack could often be found in the garage tinkering with cars, reloading ammo, restoring firearms, and grilling delicious barbeque. He was a man of many talents and skills and an excellent marksman.

Jack’s sense of humor and quick wit made him a popular man anywhere he went. Later, after moving to independent living, his personality reunited him with old friends/colleagues. And earned him many new friends, too.

Jack was an active member of the Smithville community, attending Chamber of Commerce and Senior Citizens meetings regularly, providing historical information and research; always helping the community. Jack was also a member of the Smithville Masonic Lodge for over 60 years.

Due to his excellent speaking, writing & leadership skills, he attended hearings to help protect and promote the town he loved.

He and his wife, Carol were active members in Barry Christian Church and served as leaders for several years, working with the youth in the congregation.

Jack will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by his children; Phil Woods, Paul (Patty) Woods, and Jill Woods. Grandchildren, Taylor (Justin) Santini, Gregory (Alexia) Woods, Kimberly (Kristopher) Murphy, and Michael (Melissa) Woods, four grandchildren, three plus great grandchildren extended family and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Woods, step-son Daniel Saferite, granddaughter Donna Woods, and his brothers James F. Woods and Jerry D. Woods.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Smithville American Legion January 30, 2025 from 3-7 pm with a final resting place at Terrace Park Cemetery.