Jerry "Woody" Harrawood

There was no greater place that Woody Harrawood would have rather been than being on the open road. Whether it was the freedom, the cool breeze or listening to his favorite tunes, Woody simply loved to drive wherever the road took him. It was behind the wheel where Woody could gather his thoughts and ponder his dreams. A special man in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, he will be deeply missed.

The year 1945 marked many changes in the history of America. The slinky made its debut to the delight of children everywhere, and radios were tuned to the likes of Bing Crosby, Perry Como and the Andrews Sisters. The victorious end to World War II brought joy and celebration the world over. In the city of Kankakee, Illinois, George and Bessie Harrawood had additional reason to celebrate as they welcomed the birth of their son, Jerry on April 10 of that year.

With the end of the war, the economy boomed. Serviceman returned home to their families and housing development soared in newly defined suburbs. The city of Kankakee was no exception during this time of economic prosperity. Industry brought forth manufacturing jobs and the town was thriving. Jerry, or “Woody” as he was affectionately known, grew up in the midst of these changing yet simplistic times alongside his siblings, Bill, Marion and Tom. Childhood days for Woody were filled with neighborhood friends, and the typical adventure and mischief that young boys often find.

Having attended the local schools, Woody shared several special friendships. The one thing he always looked forward to was anticipating his driver’s license. From the moment he was able to get behind the wheel of a car, it seemed as if that is where he remained. Woody learned to love the open road from early on and nothing made him happier than being behind that wheel. It never mattered if he had a destination or any special place to go; he just liked driving and did so at every opportunity.

Woody went on to serve his country during the Vietnam War in the United States Army. It was a difficult time in America as the war cast a shadow on every aspect of American life. It seemed as if America “grew up” during the 1960s when political unrest, racial tensions and peace demonstrations ruled the headlines.

When he returned home from the service, Woody began working for the Roper Corporation where he remained until the 1980s recession forced the factory to close. At this point in time Woody took it upon himself to be his own boss. He became self employed and began offering his services as a painter.

Life as Woody knew it took on new changes when he met and married Claire Reavis. They became husband and wife on October 31, 1989 and together made their home in Bradley, Illinois.

In his spare time, Woody enjoyed reading. As an avid reader, he especially liked the action, adventure and thrill offered by his favorite writer, Clive Cussler. With his own penchant for driving, it was only natural for Woody to like a little NASCAR. He liked the driving styles of Tony Stewart and Budweiser driver Kevin Harvick. He also enjoyed indulging himself to Saturday night poker games with several of his friends.

Foremost, Woody just loved to drive. He absolutely loved the feel of the open road, and it didn’t matter to him one bit if the sun was shining, if it was raining torrents or if snow piled drifts threatened his way. Anywhere that anyone needed to go, Woody was happy to drive them there. He drove his kids and grandkids just about everywhere and taught most, if not all of them, how to drive.

At the age of 65, Jerry “Woody” Harrawood passed away on Friday, November 12, 2010 at his home in Bradley, Illinois. He is survived by his wife, Claire; his sons: Ricky Larkin of Bradley, IL, Jeff Vail of Bradley, IL, Rick (Devon) Vail of Benton, IL, and Jim Archer of Tennessee; his daughters: Tina (Pat) Dalton of Bradley, IL, Michelle Harrawood-Koziol of Manteno, IL, Kelly (Duane) Hill of Manteno, IL, and Toni (Pat) Graf of Bradley, IL; 22 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; special cousins, Bunny and Bear; nieces, Lori and Debbie; a favorite nephew, Norman Phillips of Kankakee, IL; and his beloved dog, Toby Keith. Woody was preceded in death by his parents and by his brothers, Bill, Marion and Tom Harrawood.

A memorial service for Woody will take place on Thursday, November 18, 2010, 5:00 PM at the Bradley Chapel of the Schreffler Funeral Homes. Visitation with his family will also be held on Thursday from 2:00 PM until the time of the service at 5:00 PM. Cremation rites will be accorded. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family are appreciated. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com to submit a favorite memory or photo of Woody or to sign his online guest book.