Dale Woodruff, better known as Dig, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on the evening of March 19, 2025, surrounded by his loving family in Hollis, Oklahoma, at the age of sixty-three. Born on October 19, 1961, to Donnie Wayne Woodruff and Betty Jean Mitchell Woodruff, Dale was a lifelong resident of Hollis, where he built a life filled with passion, adventure, and unwavering love for his family.
From a young age, Dale’s life was shaped by hard work and a deep fascination with automobiles. As a teenager, he began his journey at his parents’ Phillips 66 gas station, where he learned the value of dedication by changing tires, checking fluids, and pumping gas. He worked as a mechanic at Wilbur and Kenneth Lovings Garage. Dale mowed lawns with his Grandpa Woodruff and brother, Tony. After graduating from Hollis High School in 1979, he briefly attended college before returning home to pursue his true calling—working with vehicles. Dale started his working career after college working at David Rath Chevrolet.
Dale’s career as a truck driver spanned decades. He worked for esteemed companies such as Dixon’s in Hollis, Jewett Scott Trucking, Passmore Trucking, Maverick Trucking, Circle T Trucking, SMX, and Cypress Truck Lines. While working for Cypress, he was honored for driving one million safe miles. Though he loved the open road, Dale’s greatest joy was being home with his family. He made it a priority to be there for weekends, ensuring he spent quality time with his wife, then off to the races with his boys. Trucking was more than a job to Dale—it was a way to provide a stable and fulfilling life for those he loved most.
On June 2, 1989, Dale married the love of his life, Stephanie Godfrey, and together they built a beautiful family. They were blessed with two sons, Gavin and Westin, who were the pride of Dale’s life. He was a storyteller at heart, sharing tales of life on the road and his many adventures. Dale never met a stranger, and his warm, generous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.
Beyond trucking, Dale had an incredible passion for racing and automobiles. As the 2004 track champion in the Bomber Class at Altus Speedway, he proudly carried the number 62 on his race car. Whether competing in stock car races or cheering on his favorite NASCAR drivers, such as Dale Earnhardt Sr. and Kyle Larson, Dale’s love for speed and mechanics was unmatched. He also enjoyed restoring engines, hunting rattlesnakes with Ralph, George, and Fred, fishing, and embarking on countless adventures. His favorite saying to his kids, “Watching is helping,” became a cherished family motto.
Dale had a unique gift for giving nicknames, not only to people but also to every car and truck he owned—each one thoughtfully chosen. Above all, he cherished being called “Pa” by his beloved grandson, Maverick, and “Oh boy” did he share a special bond and love him unconditionally. Dale’s loyal K9 companion, Clyde, was also a constant source of joy and companionship.
Dale was preceded in death by his parents, Donnie Wayne “Sleepy” Woodruff and Betty Jean Woodruff; his maternal grandparents, John Elbert Mitchell and Mary S. Mitchell; his paternal grandparents, E.V. Woodruff and Beulah Barker Woodruff; and his father-in-law, Corky Sells.
Left to carry on Dale’s legacy is his loving wife of thirty-five years, Stephanie Godfrey Woodruff; his two sons, Gavin Woodruff and wife Alexie, Westin Woodruff and wife Mikah; his brothers, Tony Woodruff, Chris Woodruff and Mary Mingura; his sister, Elaine Hanks and husband Darrell; his grandson, Maverick; his mother-in-law, Kathy Burnett; and countless friends and family members who will forever cherish his memory.
Dale’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and an unshakable commitment to his family. He lived life with a tireless work ethic, a passion for adventure, and a heart full of love for those around him. Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit will live on in the stories he told, the memories he created, and the lives he touched.
The family kindly invites guests to honor Dale's passion for racing by wearing their favorite racing apparel—whether it be a team jersey, racing shirt, or colors—to the service.
A memorial service will be 1:00 p.m. Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the First Baptist Church Family Life Center, Hollis, Oklahoma.
Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Harmon County Funeral Home, Hollis, Oklahoma.
To send flowers in memory of Dale Woodruff, visit the Tribute Store.
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Memorial
26
Apr
201 Jones Street
Hollis, OK 73550
