Kenneth W. Woodruff, Sr., 72, peacefully transitioned from this life, surrounded by family and friends in the early morning of February 7, 2022. Kenneth was a decorated veteran who served in the Vietnam War.

Kenneth was born on April 8, 1949 in Winston-Salem, NC to Milton and Mazie Woodruff. He attended Paisley High School, where he enjoyed playing football. It was also during this time where he met his wife of over 51 years, Cynthia L. Black. After graduating from Paisley High School in 1967, he joined the army and served in Vietnam.

After completing his service in Vietnam, he went on to work and later retired from R.J. Reynolds. During this time, he also enjoyed spending time with his wife, children, family and close friends. He was a dynamic cook and an avid traveler who loved to explore different places across the world. He was also very proud of his involvement with the "Big Four" Alumni Association.

Kenneth was predeceased by his father, Milton C. Woodruff; his mother, Mazie S. Woodruff; and his eldest brother, Melvin T. Woodruff.

He leaves to cherish his memories, his wife of 51 years Cynthia Woodruff; his children, Kendra Woodruff, Kenneth (Melissa) Woodruff Jr., and Kimberly (Charles) Steward; four grandchildren, Avery, Makenzie, MaKenna, and Aiden; his siblings, Charles (Sue) Woodruff, Mildred (Calvin) Strange, Sylvia Woodruff, Robert Woodruff, and Arnetta (Waldo) Hauser; a host of nieces and nephews; and several life-long friends.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations "In memory of Kenneth Woodruff, Sr." be made to the 'Mazie Woodruff Scholarship' at The Forsyth Tech Foundation (forsythtech.edu/giving or The Forsyth Tech Foundation, 2100 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem, NC 27103).

The public viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Monday, February 21, 2022 at Russell Funeral Home.

Homegoing celebration will be held at 12:00noon Tuesday, February 22, 2022 at the Russell Funeral Home Chapel.

Interment will follow in Salisbury National Cemetery, Salisbury, NC.