Gary William Woody, 79

Gary William Woody, 79, of Pinehurst, Idaho, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother, passed away May 18, 2025, at Kootenai Health in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, surrounded by his family. Gary was born Oct. 12, 1945, in Wendell, Idaho, son of the late William “Billy” Woody and Elaine (Bingham) Woody. 

Gary was raised on a farm in Tuttle, Idaho, and when he was 11, the family moved to Rupert, Idaho. The family then moved again when Gary was in eighth grade to Hailey, Idaho, where he graduated from Hailey High School, Class of 1964. Gary went on to attend the Kinman Business University in Spokane, Wash., and then the University of Idaho. Although Gary did not graduate, he was always considered an alumnus. 

Working in the banking industry for over 30 years, Gary began his career in Coeur d’Alene in 1969 at Idaho First National Bank. He was promoted to assistant manager in 1970 in Pinehurst, Idaho. In 1976, Gary went on to Priest River, Idaho, until he moved back to Pinehurst, where he was promoted to manager in 1978. Later in 1981, Gary was promoted to manager over both Kellogg and Pinehurst banking locations. Gary was transferred to Sandpoint, Idaho, in 1985 and promoted again to manager and vice president. Finally, in 1991, Gary transferred back to Kellogg until his retirement from US Bank in 2000. Gary came out of retirement and worked as a Realtor for West Valley Realty and Silver Heritage for several years and then finally retired. 

Gary met his wife and best friend, Sherry Lilienkamp, while working at Idaho First National Bank and the two were married in 1972. Gary often told others that he doubted anyone who thought he and Sherry would make it together for over 50 years after only knowing each other for six weeks before getting married. The couple had two children, Kevin and Jason. Spending time with his family, kids and grandkids was always a highlight for Gary. 

Gary enjoyed numerous sporting activities and was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed snow skiing, water skiing, fishing, hunting, camping, boating, biking, 4-wheeling and gardening. He also took up an interest in woodworking. 

Survivors include his loving wife, Sherry Woody, of Pinehurst, Idaho; two sons, Kevin (Angelina) Woody of Missoula, Mont., and Jason (Nikki) Woody of Pinehurst, Idaho; six grandchildren, Samantha Woody, Kendra Woody, Mackenzie (Corey) Bolle-Woody, Rylie Woody, Justin Woody and Lindsey Woody; one great-granddaughter, Haisley Bolle; a sister, Mardell (Dave) Ackerman of Rathdrum, Idaho; and a brother in-law, Dick Lilienkamp of Wallace, Idaho. Gary was a father figure to Shawn (Christina) Malone. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. 

At Gary’s request, no formal services will be held and donations in his memory may be made to Shoshone Pet Rescue. 

Memories of Gary and messages of condolence may be shared with his family online at www.shoshonefuneralservice.com. Shoshone Funeral Services, Kellogg, is assisting the Woody family with arrangements.