He passed away on September 6, 2025, in Asheville, North Carolina, at the age of 77.

Johnnie proudly served in the United States Navy and remained a man of strong faith throughout his life. When his sons were young, he was a leader in the Royal Rangers, mentoring boys in outdoor skills and spiritual growth. A hardworking man, Johnnie ran his own TV repair company and later worked at the prison in Buena Vista.

He loved the outdoors and could often be found four-wheeling on mountain roads, bow hunting, skiing at Monarch, or searching for rocks and arrowheads. He enjoyed working with his hands and spent time blacksmithing, collecting antiques, and restoring treasures.

To his grandchildren, Johnnie was a bright light — loving, funny, and caring, with a charm and humor that made every moment with him unforgettable. They recall adventures in Buena Vista, hunting for peridot near Badger Creek, visiting his antique store in Georgetown, and sharing cinnamon rolls at local diners. Whether joking about a “wolf bone,” telling stories of old trains, or teaching life lessons, Johnnie instilled in them a spirit of independence and strength. As one grandchild shared: “Johnnie was an amazing grandfather who instilled values of independence and strength in me. I will forever remember him and be grateful for the lessons he taught me.”

He was preceded in death by his parents and his half-brother, Leslie Ferguson.

He is survived by his wife, Laura Woods; his two sons, William H. Woods (Mary) and Thomas D. Woods (Tammy); his grandchildren, Forrest Victoria Smith, Ruedi Daniel Woods, and Rem Dubh Cassian Blackwell; his brother, Kenneth Woods; and his half-sister, Freida (Ferguson) Sprout.

Whether on a mountain trail, a ski slope, or with family gathered around, Johnnie lived with humor, generosity, and adventure. His spirit will continue to guide those who loved him.