John Clifford Woodell, Sr., age 93, on June 14, 2025, in Mullica Hill, New Jersey. He was the devoted husband of Virginia (née Ianni) Woodell, his beloved wife of 72½ years. Proud father of Penny Aspell (the late Richie) of Clayton, Karen Kalnas (Paul) of Franklinville, Carol Easton (Dave) of Henderson, Nevada, and the late John C. Woodell, Jr. Cherished grandfather of five and great-grandfather of seven. John is survived by his sister Arleen Meister and brother Thomas Woodell and was predeceased by his siblings Betty England (the late Bob) and Charles Woodell (the late Mabel).
Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on October 4, 1931, John was the son of the late Lacy Clifford and Mary Lucy (née Wentz) Woodell. He was raised in Clayton, New Jersey, and graduated from Clayton High School in 1949. Shortly thereafter, he proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard during the Korean War, completing three years of service.
John’s career exemplified his strong work ethic and quiet leadership. He began working at DuPont in Delaware, followed by a position at Kimble Glass in Vineland. In 1962, he began what would become a long and successful career with Shell Chemical Corporation in West Deptford, where he served as a foreman until his retirement in 1987.
John and Virginia spent many happy years in Franklinville before settling in Mullica Hill in 1981. There, they built a life centered on family, tradition, and the simple pleasures they cherished most. Summers at their Sea Isle home were a treasured tradition, and John loved fishing from the family boat. He also enjoyed golfing with friends. A true craftsman at heart, he found great joy working with his hands in his home workshop, crafting furniture and keepsakes from wood.
A passionate sports fan, John rarely missed a Philadelphia Eagles game and cheered enthusiastically for Penn State football. He also loved attending Friday night high school football games at Clayton High School, where his own story began.
Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Friday, June 20, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the BARCLAY FUNERAL HOME, 208 Maple Street, Clayton, NJ 08312. Funeral service at 12:00 PM at the funeral home. Military honors and Interment to follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park, Hurffville, NJ. Sign the guestbook and send condolences at BarclayFuneralHome.net.
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