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Lee A. Wooddell, 88, of Pawnee passed away Friday, July 24, 2026, at Springfield Memorial Hospital.
He was born October 28, 1937, in Springfield, the son of George and Ella (Emmons) Wooddell. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Lee married Mary Kay Dowson on November 5, 1960, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Auburn.
Lee retired as a Chief Warrant Officer 4 (CW4) after 41 years of dedicated service with the Illinois Army National Guard. He also retired from the Department of the Army following a distinguished career in federal service. As a faithful member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Auburn, Lee served in a variety of roles.
Lee enjoyed fishing, attending jazz festivals, watching sports, and especially spending time with his family. One of his greatest joys was his grandsons, and he rarely, if ever, missed one of their performances or events. His steadfast love, encouragement, and presence will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.
Surviving are his wife of 65 years, Mary Kay; son, Mark Wooddell of Pawnee, IL; daughter, Jennifer (Philip) Spengler of Washington, IL; two grandsons, Colby (Kristin) Spengler of Lakeland, FL and Carson (Samantha) Spengler of Washington, IL; several nieces and nephews.
A graveside service with military honors will be held Thursday, July 30, 2026, at 11:00 am, at Camp Butler National Cemetery with Rev. Jeff Anderson officiating.
Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church in Auburn, Pawnee Fire Department, or American Heart Association. Please mail to Bramley Funeral Home, PO Box 55, Divernon, IL 62530.
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