Son of Charles E. and Jennie O. (Fisher) Woody Charles Nelson Woody, 86, of Ozark, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2005, in his home. He was born Sept. 15, 1919, in Weatherby, Mo., the son of Charles E. and Jennie O. (Fisher) Woody. On July 3, 1941, Nelson was united in marriage with the love of his life, Rebecca Jane Brown.
On Oct. 13, 1942, Nelson entered the military with the United States Army and later trained as an aircraft mechanic. During his World War II assignment and overseas tour Nelson survived an aircraft crash and a long, dangerous journey through the deep jungle of Burma. By the end of the war, Nelson had recorded a total of 141 flying hours, including 54 combat flying hours, had been promoted to staff sergeant and was a fully qualified flight engineer.
On Dec. 29, 1945, Nelson received an honorable discharge along with certificates and letters of appreciation from General Arnold of the Air Force, commander of the Army Air Corps and President Harry S. Truman.
On Jan. 8, 1947, Nelson entered into the National Trade School in Kansas City, to take a course in plumbing. He graduated in September 1947, and began a career that lasted more than 34 years. Nelson took retirement in 1981, and he and Rebecca moved to the Ozarks to be closer to area relatives.
Nelson was a continuous caregiver to Rebecca during her illness and a loving husband for almost 60 years. Nelson was a true “Hero” to every member of his family, always gentle, caring, loving and sincere.
Nelson was preceded in death by his wife Rebecca, on Nov. 16, 2000. Also preceding him in death were his parents and a brother Lyle Woody.
Nelson is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and several caring friends.
Graveside funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 11, in the Yates Cemetery where Nelson was laid to rest beside his loving wife Rebecca. Full military honors were provided by the National Guard’s Bravo Team, Springfield.
Funeral services were under the care and direction of Barnes Family Funeral Home, Ozark, with Nelson’s nephew John B. Reece officiating.
