John Gary Wooley

John Gary Wooley, “Johnny”, age 77, of Live Oak, FL passed away Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at his home following a brief illness.  He was a native and life-long resident of Live Oak.

Prior to retirement Pops didn’t spend a lot of time engaged in hobbies that were centered on himself, but instead chose to spend any free personal time engaged with his children and grandchildren doing things that they enjoyed. He enjoyed watching football and found satisfaction in attending social gatherings that provided opportunities to engage in meaningful conversations with those in attendance, especially most recently the Suwannee High School class of 1965 reunions.

After retirement he took great joy in watching his grandchildren and great grandchild participate in things that they enjoyed.  He discovered a new passion in outdoor cooking and barbecuing.  He and son Damon formed the cook team of Wooley Bully “BBQ Mafia” and competed in sanctioned barbecue contests across the country for many years that carried them as well as many other family members and close friends to beautiful venues throughout the nation.  He often spoke fondly of all the amazing people he had been fortunate to meet and the incredible beauty he was blessed to see around the country, in large part due his participation in what is commonly referred to as competition barbecue.

Pops loved his family and friends. He was a reluctant politician. He loved Suwannee County and its citizens. He believed in service over self. He was most fulfilled when the challenge was greatest. He dutifully stewarded Suwannee County through a multitude of changes and challenges. He always tried to do what was best for his family and county no matter what the personal cost. He was the epitome of a servant leader.

He was predeceased by his parents, Leon and Leona Wooley; his sister, Patricia Wooley Hutchings.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Margaret Wooley, Live Oak, FL; two sons, John Gary "Jay" Wooley, II and his wife, Ann, Hazelhurst, GA; Damon Lee and his wife, Ashlee, Live Oak, FL; one daughter, Jennifer Lyn Wooley, Live Oak, FL; four grandchildren and one great grandchild.

Memorial services will be held at a later date.

Please keep his family in your prayers today and the days ahead.