Cover photo for Michael J. Woodward's Obituary
Michael J. Woodward Profile Photo
1953 Woody 2025

Michael J. Woodward

May 25, 1953 — March 16, 2025

Michael Joseph Woodward, 71, of Devon, PA, passed away on March 16, 2025 with his loving wife Kathy by his side.

Born on May 25, 1953 in Darby, PA, he was the son of the late James Louis, Jr. and the late Elizabeth M. (nee Gallagher) Woodward.

Woody, as he was affectionately known, was the cherished husband and life-long partner of Kathleen M. (nee McDevitt) Woodward – they were together for over 57 years and would have celebrated their 48th wedding anniversary this coming May. He was the loving father of Danielle Hope Scafidi (Michael), Morgan Taylor Giannone (Justin), and Connor Michael Woodward (Kaitlin); adoring Grumpy of Leonardo Scafidi, Luca Giannone, Reagan Woodward, Wyatt Woodward, and Jade Giannone; dear brother of Patrick Woodward (Susan) and Elizabeth Smith (the late Kenny); beloved son-in law to Amelia McDevitt (the late Jack); and caring brother-in-law of Marybeth McDevitt and Patricia McDevitt. He was predeceased by his brother, James Woodward, III. He will also be missed by his many nieces and nephews.

After attending St. Charles Borromeo School in Drexel Hill and Sacred Heart School in Manoa, Woody graduated from Cardinal O’Hara High School (‘71) and earned his bachelor’s degree from LaSalle College (‘75).

An entrepreneur at heart, he found his calling in real estate. Together with Kathy, he bought a Duplex on Burmont Road in 1976. They worked tirelessly side by side over the next 50 years to grow their business, Woodward Properties, into one of the most well-regarded multi-family housing development companies in Pennsylvania. Finding his passion early in life gave him the opportunity to travel the world with his bride and provide for his family in immeasurable ways.

Above all things he devoted his life to his family. He loved a good golf course and a great cigar. He was always drawn to the ocean. He was quietly generous, fiercely loyal, quick-witted and deeply loving. He lived fully and with intention. He was a true inspiration.

Relatives and friends are invited to his Viewings: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Thursday, March, 20, 2025 at The Donohue Funeral Home, 3300 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, PA 19073; and 9:30 AM to 10:15 AM, Friday, March 21, 2025 at St. Anastasia Church, 3301 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, PA 19073, followed by his Funeral Mass at 10:30 AM. Interment at Ss. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Springfield.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The American Brain Tumor Association at abta.org 

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Michael J. Woodward, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Past Services

Viewing

Thursday, March 20, 2025

4:00 - 8:00 pm (Eastern time)

Donohue Funeral Home - Newtown Square

3300 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, PA 19073

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Viewing

Friday, March 21, 2025

9:30 - 10:15 am (Eastern time)

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Mass

Friday, March 21, 2025

Starts at 10:30 am (Eastern time)

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Interment

Friday, March 21, 2025

SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery

1600 Sproul Rd, Springfield, PA 19064

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