Jerome "Joe" M. Woodgeard, Jr.

Jerome M. “Joe” Woodgeard, Jr., age 58 of Fairborn, passed away Friday, August 21, 2026, at Soin Medical Center. He was born May 13, 1968, in Dayton, the son of the late Jerome M. Sr. and Patricia Ann (Lankford) Woodgeard.

Joe was the proud owner and operator of J & L Trucking and Excavating, a business he built from the ground up. Starting with nothing but hard work, determination, and a dream;

Joe poured his heart into building his company and was incredibly proud of what he accomplished. He loved being behind the controls of one of his machines and took great pride in his work. Some of his most peaceful moments came in the early morning hours, sitting on his machine and watching the sun come up. Those quiet moments brought Joe a sense of peace and tranquility that he truly cherished.

When he wasn’t working, Joe enjoyed the many things that brought him happiness. He had a true passion for Mac trucks and Novas, and he loved spending time restoring and working on classic cars. He could often be found casting a line while fishing, or simply spending time outdoors making memories and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. Joe especially loved camping and looked forward to time spent doing so with his family. Florida also held a special place in his heart, and he loved the time he was able to spend there.

Although Joe had many interests and passions throughout his life, nothing compared to the love he had for his family. His wife, children, grandchildren, and extended family were the most important part of his world. Joe was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, and he took great pride in the people he loved. He was happiest when his family was together and would do anything he could to make sure they were cared for.

In recent years, his grandchildren held an especially precious place in his heart. Kenzie, Preston, and Noah brought him tremendous pride and happiness, and he treasured every moment he was able to spend with them. Their laughter, smiles, and time together created memories that will forever remain in the hearts of his family. Joe was so proud of his grandchildren, and they will always carry with them the love of their Papaw.

Joe also had a special love for his three dogs, Kenya, Tyson, and Colt, who were more than just pets—they were part of his family. He loved them dearly, and they were a constant source of companionship and happiness in his life.

Joe’s memory will live on through the family he loved so deeply, the life he worked so hard to build, and the countless memories he created with those fortunate enough to know him. He will be remembered for his hard work, his passions, his love of the outdoors and Florida. Most of all he will be remembered for the love and pride he had for his family. Though his absence leaves an emptiness that cannot be filled, the love he gave will remain with his family and friends forever.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Marvin and Mary Woodgeard; maternal grandparents, Ernest and Allie Lankford; and a niece, Marianne Jones.

Survivors include his wife of 35 years, Linda; three children, Errika (Bryan) Tschudi, Cody (Kacy) Woodgeard, and Brandon Woodgeard, all of Fairborn; a bonus daughter, Jessica (Brandon) Deatherage of Galveston, TX; three grandchildren, Kenzie, Preston, and Noah; three sisters, Sherri Woodgeard (Billy Heckman), Jerri (Mike) Jones, and Mary Slone (Mart Hicks); three brothers-in-law, Eugene (Tammy) Phillips, Gary Phillips, and Doyle Phillips; a sister-in-law, Tina Hoskins; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other extended family, and friends.

The family will receive friends on Friday, August 28, 2026, from 5:00 until 8:00 P.M. at the Belton-Stroup Funeral Home, 422 E. Dayton-Yellow Springs Rd., Fairborn, where a funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 10:00 A.M., Rev. Michael Phillips officiating. Burial will follow at Byron Cemetery.

Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the American Stroke Foundation.

Condolences may be made to the family at Belton-Stroup Funeral Home.