Cecil Edward Woodward

Cecil Edward Woodward, 89, of Callaway, Nebraska passed away on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at the Callaway Good Life Center.

He was born on September 19, 1936, in Callaway, Nebraska to Merril and Esther (Rarden) Woodward. He attended public school in Callaway and graduated from Callaway High School with the class of 1954.

Cecil enlisted in the United States Army in 1957 where he proudly served his country until he was honorably discharged on January 31, 1959. On August 10, 1959, Cecil married Hazel Harvey. Four children were blessed to this union: Jeral, Joe, Janel and Jon. This marriage would later end. He would soon find love again and was united in marriage to Jean Hergenrader on July 7, 2001 bringing a blended family together with Krysti and Scott.

Cecil worked in various jobs in Cozad and owned the Body Fender Repair and later painted cars at H&H Body Shop. In 1970 his family made their home in Callaway where he owned the Sinclair Service Station then worked for the Village of Callaway doing maintenance and repairs. He also spent many years working for the Coop Station (now Country Partners) until his retirement in 2001.

Cecil was greatly involved in his community throughout the years. He was a charter member of the Cozad Elks Club and held many positions in Lions Club. He was a member of the Callaway Volunteer Fire Department for over 20 years, was a village board member for 14 years, and has been a Grand Generation Manor Board Member since 1974. Although Cecil kept his plate full of work and volunteering, he always had time for friends who needed a ride to medical appointments or to enjoy a cup of coffee. Cecil was a founding and active member at the Callaway Lutheran Church.

During his down time, Cecil enjoyed being outdoors looking for wildlife, long country drives and spending time at the soddy. He often hunted, fished and went camping with his family. He was an avid pool player and enjoy traveling. He loved to keep his garden meticulously and always had a deep adoration for classic cars. His greatest love was being with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who always kept him busy with their activities and sports.

Survivors include his daughters, Jeral (Sam) Tillman of Omaha, and Janel (Rod) Brestel of Callaway; daughter-in-law, Amanda Woodward of Beatrice, Krysti (Steve) Cunningham of Omaha, Scott (Pam) Hergenrader of Cozad; sister, Peggy Holeman of Arcadia; sister-in-law, Jo Woodward of Loveland, Colorado; and brother-in-law, Rich Elliott of Lone Oak, Texas; eight grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, one great-great grandchildren; special friend, Jo Keyser of Callaway; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Besides his parents and wife Jean, Cecil was preceded in death by his two sons, Joe and Jon; brothers, Larry (Jo Ann) Woodward and Gail Woodward; sisters, Detta (Jack) Wright and Carolyn Elliott; brother-in-law, Dick Holeman.

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the Callaway Community Center in Callaway with Joyce Kolbo, P.M.A. And Ken Pitkin, officiating. The service will be live-steamed via the Reynolds-Love Funeral Home Facebook page.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Timm-Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Callaway with family receiving guests from 5-7 p.m.

Burial with Military Honors will be held after the service at the Waldheim Cemetery in rural Callaway.

Memorials are kindly suggested to the Grand Generation Manor or Callaway Good Life Center.

Timm-Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences with the family by visiting: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com