Ernest W. Woods Jr., 95, of Ohio, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2025, after a long and full life.
Born in 1930, Ernest served his country with honor as a frontline mechanic during the Korean War, proudly holding the rank of Corporal in the United States Army. After returning home, he dedicated more than 30 years of his life to American Electric Power, where he worked as a foreman. His commitment to safety and leadership left a lasting legacy—he was known to say, “They come to work alive; they should go home the same way.” Under his watch, his crews never suffered a major injury.
In recognition of his outstanding career and contributions to the trade, Ernest was inducted into the International Linemen’s Hall of Fame in June 2021—an honor that reflected both his professional excellence and his unwavering integrity.
Beyond work, Ernest was a passionate outdoorsman. He found joy in hunting and fishing, activities that brought him both peace and connection to nature throughout his life with his two grandsons and friends.
Ernest is survived by his sisters, Kay (Woods) McKee and her husband Bill of Shreve, his sister Shirley (Woods) Micahalak and her husband Dan of Findley, and beloved daughter Alison Woods of Wooster, his son Darryl Woods and wife Kelly of Glenmont. He was a proud grandfather to Adrian Woods and his wife Bethani, of Ashland, and Morgan Woods and his wife Shea of Strongsville.
His legacy of hard work, humility, and deep care for others will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Calling Hours will be Monday, May 12. 2025 from 5-7pm, at McIntire, Bradham & Sleek Funeral Home 216 E. Larwill St., Wooster.
A private family service will be held to honor his life at a later date.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com.
Sorry to get the sad news about Sonny. A long good life.
My Condolences and a great loss to the Woods Family. I worked with Woody and for Woody at Ohio Power, Wooster spending numerous times on his Crew. Ernie had done the big jobs of building and rebuilding Distribution and Transmission around the areas of Wooster, Millersburg and Canton while making friends in those neighborhoods. Always conscious about Safety for his Crew and equipment. When we pull up on a huge outage damages during storm’s the crew would be quiet waiting on orders while Ernie surveying the scene….then would say in a calm matter “ok…this is what we’re going to do”. Not only compassionate for his family but to his hunting ability and his gardening making the best Pepper Sauce. Ernie will be missed by his family, friends and coworkers that touches around Wooster, Canton, SHREVE and West Holmes Wrestling. Harry & Janet Morris, Florida
My condolances to the Family of Ernie Woods. Thinking of you all.
Our sincere condolences to the Woods family, especially Darryl and Alison upon the passing of your beloved father.
I worked at Ohio Power AEP New Philadelphia Service Building. We worked together on a few jobs and some storm trouble in other areas. Ernie was a good friend and a safe and loyal leader. Was always a good time being with him. My sympathy and prayers to all the family. For your service to our country Ernie”Salute and God bless. May you RIP”🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸