Roy Matthew Woodlief

Roy Matthew Woodlief, of Garner, North Carolina, passed away on June 12, 2026 at the age of 53, leaving behind a legacy of service, strength, faith, and deep love for his family.

Born on September 8, 1972, in Raleigh, North Carolina, Roy was raised in Garner. He was preceded in death by his mother, Shirley Brisson Woodlief, and his father, Nathan Woodlief. He is survived by his stepmother, Susan Woodlief.

Roy is survived by his beloved wife of 26 years, Jamie Woodlief, and their daughter, Elaina Woodlief. He is also survived by his brothers, Ernest (Jennifer) Woodlief and Nathan "Mack" Woodlief; his stepsister, Kimberly (Richard) Avery; his nieces, Taylor Woodlief and Allison Avery Nall (Rolland); his nephews, Jonathan Woodlief and Chandler Avery (Mary Margaret); his dear cousin, Brandon Howard; his aunt, Janie Grimes; his mother-in-law, Bonnie Drechsler; his father-in-law, George Gippert; his former sister-in-law, Sybil Woodlief; and many other extended family members.

Roy graduated from Garner High School in 1991 and joined the United States Army just 11 days later. He proudly served from 1991 to 1996, with assignments in Egypt, Korea, and Fort Rucker, Alabama. In 2001, he continued his service in the Army Reserve and later deployed to Iraq with the 463rd Engineer Combat Battalion during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Before entering law enforcement, Roy worked in cabinetry. In August 2004, he joined the Wake County Sheriff's Office. Following his deployment to Iraq, he returned home and continued what became a nearly 20-year career in law enforcement.

During his time with the Sheriff's Office, Roy served in the courthouse, patrol, and domestic violence units before joining Special Operations in 2012. In 2016, he received the Mr. "Z" Appreciation Award in recognition of his outstanding service to the citizens of Wake County.

Roy often said, "If you love what you do, you never work a day in your life," and he lived that belief fully. At 6'4" and 250 pounds, he could appear intimidating, but those who knew him best knew his kindness, integrity, humor, and willingness to help anyone in need.

Roy met Jamie in 1996 and married her on September 11, 1999. In 2000, they welcomed their daughter, Elaina, who brought him immense pride and joy.

Roy loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter. In 2024, he fulfilled a lifelong goal when he harvested a bull elk in Colorado, an experience he deeply cherished. He was also known for his quiet humor, well-timed pranks, and devotion to Appalachian State Football.

He was a devoted member of Mid-Way Baptist Church and was deeply loved by his church family.

In October 2023, Roy was diagnosed with motor neuron disease, and in December 2023, that diagnosis was confirmed as ALS. He faced his illness with courage, honesty, and unwavering faith.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Roy's devoted caregiver, Iban, whose compassion, friendship, and dedication meant more than words can express. They are also grateful for the exceptional care and support provided by Elm Private Care, Amedisys Hospice, the Durham VA Health Care System, and the many medical professionals who cared for Roy throughout his journey.

Roy shared his journey openly, encouraging others and pointing them toward the faith that sustained him. He often closed his messages with a phrase that became meaningful to many and which he credited to a friend and coworker: "If nobody has told you today, I love you."

Roy is also survived by his two beloved golden retrievers and a cat who remained constant companions.

A visitation will be held on Monday, June 15 from 5:00PM to 8:00PM at Mid-Way Baptist Church. A service to celebrate Roy's life will be held on Tuesday, June 16 at 11:00AM at Mid-Way Baptist Church. Honors will be provided by the Wake County Sheriff's Office and military honors in recognition of Roy's service to his country.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Roy's memory to ALS United North Carolina or Mid-Way Baptist Church.

The family is deeply grateful for the love, prayers, and support shown during this time.