James Wooldridge

James “Eddie” Wooldridge, a loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully June 30, 2024, in Olathe, Kansas, at the age of 88.

Born Aug. 12, 1935, in Lafe, Arkansas, to James William and Lola Mae (Dortch) Wooldridge, Eddie grew up to embody the adventurous spirit and caring heart that would define his life.

Eddie’s formative years were spent on the family farm in Arkansas, where he attended Marmaduke High School. His service to the nation was marked by his role as a Commander in the United States Coast Guard, a testament to his unwavering sense of duty and patriotism. His thirst for knowledge and commitment to personal growth led him to Arkansas State University, where he met his future wife, Ruby Ladoyne Hoggard, and was a proud, early member of the Iota-Theta Zeta of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. He earned a Bachelor’s degree that would pave the way for a distinguished career.

For over three decades, Eddie dedicated his professional life to the Missouri Department of Health as a public health inspector, ensuring the well-being of countless individuals and communities. His leadership and dedication were not confined to his professional endeavors; he was also a pillar in the Scouting community. As Troop 61’s Scoutmaster in West Plains, Missouri, he shaped the lives of young scouts, completing the rigorous Wood Badge program, serving as District Commissioner, and receiving the prestigious Silver Beaver Award from the Ozarks Council for his exceptional contributions.

Eddie’s life was a tapestry woven with the love of his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, James William and Lola Mae Wooldridge, and his cherished wife of 43 years, Ruby Wooldridge, who shared his passion for family and life’s adventures. His sister, Frances Wooldridge, also preceded him in passing.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and family through his children: James Edward Wooldridge and his wife, Deborah Abundis Wooldridge, of Arvada, Colorado; William Craig Wooldridge and his wife, Beth Graf Wooldridge, of Olathe, Kansas; and Amon Lee Wooldridge and his wife, Kristin Kay Wooldridge, of Liberty, Missouri. His grandchildren include James, John, Ian, Hayden, Kaylee, Adam, Brody, and Rhett Wooldridge, along with Erik Lockwood and Raymond Graham. They will carry forward his spirit of learning, adventure, and service to others. Eddie is also survived by his siblings, Don Wooldridge of Woodstock, Georgia, and Ella Mae Kincade of Pocahontas, Arkansas, who will fondly remember their brother’s love and dedication to family.

The world is a better place for having been graced with Eddie’s presence, and his life was a testament to the power of family and community. He was the embodiment of a loving son, father, and grandfather, a caring brother, and a steadfast friend to many. His legacy of family, love, and adventure will continue to inspire those who knew him, as well as those who hear of his remarkable life in the years to come. His journey on earth may have come to a close, but the path he forged remains a guiding light for all who seek to live a purposeful life devoted to family.

As we bid farewell to Eddie, we celebrate a life well-lived—a life that continues to resonate within the hearts of his loved and cherished ones. His memory will be treasured, his lessons honored, and his spirit will be forever woven into the fabric of the lives he touched. It is with endless love, deep admiration and profound respect that we honor his memory

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, July 5, 2024, at the Irby Funeral Home Chapel in Marmaduke with Bro. Kim Bridges officiating. Burial will follow at Harvey’s Chapel Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.