James R. Woodbury, Sergeant, USAF
May 3, 1946 – September 8, 2023

James R. Woodbury, 77, Kokomo, passed away at 11:43 am on Friday, September 8, 2023, at his home.  He was born in Worcester, MA on May 3, 1946, to the late Lewis H. and Claire (Houle) Woodbury.  In Kokomo on May 24, 1997, he married Sherill A. McGowan, and she survives.

James graduated from David Prouty High School in Spencer, MA in 1964. He served in the United States Air Force (20th SOS Green Hornets) from 1966-1970 and earned the rank of Sergeant in 1968. He fought in the Vietnam War from 1968-1969 as a Crew Chief Door Gunner, he is an Atomic Veteran and a Silver Star recipient. James was a Police officer from 1972-1976 in Jasonville, IN. He also worked for Cannon Trucking, Martin Wrecker as a wrecker operator, Brambles, American Crane as a crane operator, and was a driver for Brad Howell Ford. He was a member of the Local 103 Operating Engineers, VFW Post 1152, the Indiana Patriot Guard, Howard County Vietnam Veterans, American Huey 369, SOA, SOAR, and ABATE.  He enjoyed riding his motorcycle, camping, 60’s music, and playing Corn Hole. James loved spending time with his family, friends, and his dog Bella.  He was a fan of the Boston Red Sox, Boston Celtics, and NASCAR.

Along with his wife Sherill, James is survived by his children, James (Michelle) Woodbury Jr., Rachel (Scott) Harris, and David Russell Woodbury; grandchildren, Brandon Scalf, Jenifer Scalf, Cody Scalf, Katie Carter, Kaleb Carter, Jake Harris, Izac Woodbury, and Daemon Woodbury; 4 great grandchildren; and sister, Sandra (Robert) Lekstrom.

He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter, Nicole Henry, and brother, William Woodbury.

Family and friends may visit with the family from 3 pm to 7 pm on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo. Inurnment will take place in Arlington National Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.  Arrangements have been entrusted with Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory.  Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

James “Woody” Woodbury served in the Vietnam War as a UH-1P Crew Chief/Flight Mechanic/Door Gunner with the 20^th Special Operations Squadron.