Gene Woodruff

Lionel Eugene "Gene" Woodruff, age 85, of Abbott, passed away late Friday morning, August 20, 2021 at Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest Hospital in Waco. Graveside services will be held 10:00 a.m. Thursday, August 26, 2021 at Abbott Cemetery, with Chaplain Larry Holden officiating. Gene was born January 17, 1936 in Navarro County, near Wortham, the son of Phillip and Hallie (Holder) Woodruff. He was a 1954 graduate of Abbott High School prior to attending Navarro Junior College. On July 3, 1958 he was united in marriage to Sharla Dockery in Waco. Gene proudly served his country with the United States Army. Gene was a supervisor and electrician for Dallas Power and Light which later became Oncor Electric for 37 years before retiring in 1993. After retiring he became a contractor for Oncor for 13 years. Gene enjoyed tractors, tending to his farm, stayed very busy but yet, valued his leisure time. He loved spending time with his family and was known to many as "Pepa". Gene is preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Thomas Woodruff; and sisters, Juanita Stafford-Johnson and Virginia Sullins. Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Sharla Woodruff of Abbott; two sons, Philip Woodruff of Frisco and Greg Woodruff of Hillsboro; grandchildren, Courtney Woodruff and Trevor Woodruff; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.