Woodrow Herald

Woodrow Herald, lovingly known as “Pop” to his family, passed into eternal rest on November 2, 2025, at his home in Petersburg, Kentucky, with his beloved wife, Mary, by his side. Born on Christmas Day, 1935, in Perry County, Kentucky, Woodrow’s life was a radiant gift to all who knew him, a testament to faith, hope, and love that touched hearts as gently and profoundly as the first light of dawn. He was 89.

Woodrow’s journey began in the hills of eastern Kentucky, where he graduated from Owsley County High School in 1956. With a heart full of duty and courage, he served proudly in the U.S. Navy until 1962, carrying the discipline and honor of his service into every chapter of his life. On December 28, 1963, he married the love of his life, Mary Spence, embarking on a 61-year partnership defined by unwavering devotion, shared laughter and tears, and a love that only grew deeper with every passing year.

A man of skill and dedication, Woodrow built a remarkable 40-year career, first as an Electronics Technician with RCA Records in Indianapolis, Indiana, for 20 years, and later as a Maintenance Mechanic with Frito-Lay in Frankfort, Indiana, retiring in 1997. His hands were as adept at fixing machinery as they were at mending hearts, always ready to lend a steady hand or a kind and encouraging word to those around him.

To his family, Pop was the epitome of love—a true patriarch whose greatest success was not measured in accolades but in the warmth of his embrace, the wisdom of his guidance, and the boundless affection he showered on those he held dear. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Mary; his sons, Tom Herald of Massachusetts and Matt Herald and his wife Karrie of Florida; his cherished grandchildren, Alexandria Hess and her husband David, Andrea Rainey and her husband Brandon, Logan Herald and his wife Maria, all of Indiana, and Dylan Herald of Florida; and his beloved great-grandchildren, Walter and Elena Hess of Indiana. He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie and Maude (Turner) Herald, and his brothers, Frank and Paul Herald, all of Kentucky.

Woodrow’s life was a living sermon of faith, hope, and love. With God at the center of his heart, he radiated the light of Christ in every interaction, leaving behind a legacy of kindness so profound that he genuinely never had an enemy. His gentle humor—often laced with a mischievous grin and just the right amount of ornery charm—made him a delight to be around. Whether playfully teasing a grandchild or slipping in a witty remark at just the right moment, Pop’s spirit brought joy and laughter to every room he entered. His quiet strength and unending generosity with love made him a friend to all—a beacon of goodness who made this world a better place.

To his family, Pop was the greatest example of a man they will ever know—a husband who cherished Mary with every breath, a father who guided Tom and Matt with his faith, wisdom and pride, and a grandfather whose playful spirit delighted Alex, Andie, Logan, Dylan, Walter, and Elena. His love was a steady anchor, a warm hearth, a melody of laughter that will echo in their hearts forever.

As we bid a temporary farewell to Pop, we do not grieve as those without hope, for his faith assures us “to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord” – he is now at peace in the arms of his Savior. His life reminds us to love fiercely, to live humbly, and to trust in the promise of eternal life through Christ.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to “Help’s Right Here” charity in Burlington Kentucky.

A celebration of Woodrow’s life will be held November 8th at 10AM at Belleview Baptist Church in Burlington Kentucky, where stories of his love, faith, and warmth will be shared, just as he would have wanted. Until we meet again, Pop, your light shines on in us all.

Visitation begins at 10 AM with a Funeral Service following at 12 PM. Woodrow will be put to rest at Belleview Baptist Cemetery.