John Otis Wooden, beloved son of the late Willie Dell Harvey Wooden and Otis Wooden, was born in Albany, Georgia on February 19, 1953.

He was educated in the Dougherty County School System, graduating from Monroe High School.  During his high school years, he was actively involved in numerous student organizations, activities and events.

Early in life, John accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior.  He dearly loved the Lord and was steadfast in his Christian stewardship.  In later years, he united with the New House of Refuge Church where he served faithfully until his demise.   He knew without a doubt that the joy of the Lord was his strength.

John was joined in holy matrimony to Cleavie Knighton.  They shared a bond that was unshakeable and a devotion to each other that knew no boundaries.  He was a dedicated husband and father who loved a challenge and worked diligently through the years to provide unconditionally for his family.

A genuinely good-hearted, humble man, John garnered much from his life experiences.  His love for family and friends was infinite and her cherished each moment spent with them.  He was a loving husband, devoted father, nurturing grandfather and great grandfather, incredible brother, supportive uncle, cherished nephew and cousin, and an unforgettable friend who touched the lives of people around him in a very special way.  He was also a member of the Gentlemen Social Club and will be remembered for his strong voice of reason and generous spirit.

On February 24, 2022, John quietly transitioned from this earthly realm to eternal peace and rest.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Charlie K. Wooden; his maternal grandmother, Sallie Mae Griffin; and his paternal grandparents, Bosie and Nettie Wooden.

Cherished memories will forever remain with his wife, Cleavie Knighton Wooden; six children, Patricia (Richard) Washington, Catrina Fudge, Latonya Hall, Donnica Knight, and Donnell Knight all of Albany, GA, and Roddrick Wooden of Jacksonville, FL; three stepchildren, Joycene (Andrew) Thomas of Albany, GA, and Angela Cladd and Joseph (Tiffany) Cladd both of Dawson, GA; siblings, Gloria (Sanmy) Johnson, Wendy (James) Nix, Sharon Saunders, Judy Bell Wooden, Shirley Avera, Lynda Wooden, Phyllis Burnett, Sondra Wooden, Pamela Crum, Willie James (Miniser Alvina) Wooden, and Darren Wooden; a favorite aunt, Georgia Mae Nalory; a myriad of grandchildren and great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.