Johnnie Lee Woods

Johnnie Lee Woods departed this life on June 22, 2025, at the age of 73.

Born on August 12, 1951, in Brooksville, Florida, to the late Adell Woods Jones

and William Jackson Morris, Johnnie was raised with strong values of family, hard

work, and community. He attended Moton High School in Brooksville and spent

much of his twenties and thirties working alongside family, traveling up and

down the East Coast harvesting and selling seasonal fruit. It was a hardworking

life rooted in perseverance, and one that reflected Johnnie’s strength and

commitment to providing for those he loved.

In the mid-1970s, Johnnie moved to Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, where he

began a lifelong relationship with his wife, Charlotte Harriet Brandon. Together,

they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family. Their bond spanned more

than four decades, and from their union came two cherished daughters: Tanyel

Flythe (Gary Jr.) of Harrisburg, PA, and Syrita Woods of Chambersburg, PA.

Johnnie was later employed for many years at Alpha Space Control, where he

worked with diligence and pride until retirement. After retiring, he continued to

give of his time and energy by working at the Salvation Army retail store, a role

he enjoyed as much for the people as for the purpose.

In his later years, Johnnie found peace and fulfillment in the simple joys of life:

fishing, hunting, gardening, cooking, working with his hands, shopping, and

taking long rides in his pickup truck while listening to oldies. Above all, he

treasured time with family and friends.

Affectionately known as “Hook”, a nickname lovingly given to him by his

nephew when he was a child, Johnnie was known for his hearty, infectious laugh

and his million-dollar smile. He was fiercely loyal, joyfully playful, and could 

always be counted on in a time of need. His warmth, generosity, and humor left

a lasting impression on all who knew him.

He was a devoted father and grandfather, and nothing made him prouder than

his family. In addition to his daughters, he is survived by his grandchildren: Gary

Flythe III of Harrisburg, Chase Flythe (Alaina) of Pittsburgh, and Brianna Flythe of

Pittsburgh. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Tyson Flythe of

Harrisburg, and Mila and Maisie of Dillsburg, PA.

He is also survived by siblings Donia Mae Brown of Spring Hill, FL, Christine Woods

of Toledo, Ohio, and Willie Joe Woods (Yvonne) of Brooksville, FL. Johnnie shared

a particularly strong and enduring bond with his brother, William Morris of

Brooksville, FL—a connection rooted in shared experiences, mutual respect, and

deep brotherly love. He was also deeply comforted by the presence of his sister,

Mary Frances Sesler (Clyde), whose care, compassion, and support surrounded

him tenderly all the way to the very end. He is also survived by his sister-in-law,

Margaret Smith (Andrew) of Harrisburg, PA. Lastly, he leaves behind to mourn his

loss - a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and very good friends.

Johnnie was preceded in death by his parents and stepfather Izear Jones,

brothers Willie James and Bruce O. Woods, sisters Josephine Woods, Geraldine

Browdy, Cherrie Mae Burns, Allean Woods, and father-in-law Charles Brandon.

After courageously facing two battles with cancer, Johnnie passed away at

home, surrounded by love. In honor of his strength and memory, memorial

donations have been made to the American Cancer Society, which funds lung

cancer research and support for families.

Funeral arrangements are private, per the wishes of the family, with a service

being held in Brooksville, Florida, and a memorial celebration of his life planned

for later in the summer in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, where he built his life

and raised his family.

Though Johnnie may no longer walk beside us, his laughter, love, and legacy will

remain forever in our hearts

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