Johnny Charles Woody, 82, of Springfield, MO, passed away suddenly on March 26, 2021.  He was born September 28, 1938, in Springfield, MO to Johnny Windorf Woody and Mary Ellen (Gilliland) Woody.  After graduation from Central High School, he attended the University of Kansas to study music.  In 1960 he joined the United States Air Force and became a member of the U.S.A.F Band in Washington, D.C., as a French hornist, where he stayed until 1984, attaining the rank of Chief Master Sergeant.  Following military service, he taught for three years at Southwest Missouri State University (MSU), and then became a brass specialist and district manager for Yamaha Music Corporation of America.  His jobs involved extensive travel and brought a large circle of friends worldwide.

After retirement, he and his family returned to Springfield in 1998.  He stayed involved in music by giving private lessons, and especially enjoyed playing for Little Theatre.  He spent many happy hours on the golf course, and was a lifelong fan of the St. Louis Cardinals.

Johnny was preceded in death by his parents.  He is survived by wife, Sue, of 56 years; son, Johnny Ryan of Springfield; sister, Janet Penley of San Francisco, CA; niece, Laura Springer (Mike) and family of San Francisco, CA; niece, Lisa Moss (Kyle) and family of Los Angeles, CA; nephew, Alex Penley and wife Corrina of Germany; cousins and extended family.

Interment with full military honors will be held at Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Springfield, at a later date, under the care of Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home.