Leo Lewis Woodley, Jr., of Hart, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and friends. He was born on February 19, 1942, the first WWII baby born in Oceana County, born to an active master sergeant serving in Australia.

Leo was the beloved son of Leo Lewis and Marjorie Ellen (Grate) Woodley. He grew up in Hart, Michigan, where his passion for cars began at the young age of 12 while working at Hodges Pontiac Buick. A dedicated and accomplished young man, he became a Young Eagle Scout at just 14 years old, earning the distinguished honor of the Order of the Arrow. He graduated from Hart High School in 1960 and soon after began his military service.

From 1961 to 1964, Leo served in the U.S. Army Signal Corps in Germany. He later continued his service in the Army National Guard 1436 Engineer unit in Muskegon, MI, achieving the rank of sergeant from 1976 to 1981.

Professionally, Leo had a long and successful career with GTE Business Services from 1968 until his retirement in 1999. Never one to sit still, he continued working as an independent communications contractor from 1999 onward.

Leo had a lifelong love of automobiles, particularly Corvettes and Jeeps. Over the years, he owned 18 Corvettes, many of which he restored himself, and more than 40 Jeeps, spanning models from April 1942 to 1990, including two M-38s—both Willys and Ford JPWs. His passion for military vehicles extended beyond personal interest; from the 1970s until his passing, he proudly led veteran parades with his Jeeps, honoring those who served.

Leo is survived by his children: Dana (Greg) Woodley of Marco Island, FL; Gina (Ted) Ferwerda of Silver Lake, MI; and Damon Riggs of Hart, MI; and sister, Betty Sue (John) Carnes; along with several nieces and nephews. Leo was a devoted grandfather to Cody, Logan, Andrea, Ariana, and Isabelle, and a cherished great-grandfather to Cora and Gray.

A celebration of life will be held at 3:00 PM on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at the Heritage Wedding Barns, 813 S. 32nd Avenue, Shelby, MI 49455. Help us celebrate just the way Leo would’ve wanted—full of stories, laughter, and classic rides. Come share memories (and maybe a few RPMs).

Bring your favorite vehicle and dress like you're running into Leo around town—whether that's work boots and denim or your favorite car show tee, he would have wanted you to be in your element.

After the celebration, you're invited to join us for "Leo’s Last Ride", a nostalgic cruise from the Heritage Barns to Golden Sands Golf Course and Bucket Bar, 2501 N Wilson Rd, Mears, MI 49436, for a good old-fashioned car party from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM. We’ll be serving cake and ice cream in Leo’s honor—because every celebration deserves a sweet finish.

Let’s honor Leo the way he lived: with style, horsepower, and heart.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Fighting Diamond Foundation (www.fightingdiamond.org). Additionally, in honor of Leo’s final wishes, those who are able are encouraged to donate blood and platelets—a cause close to his heart, as transfusions were his lifeline in his final year. He hoped to raise awareness of the vital importance of blood donation and the profound impact it has on saving lives.

Leo will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his unwavering spirit, passion for life, and commitment to his family, country, and community.

Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements.