Wardell Gregory Woolfolk, Sr. , affectionately known by many as "Greg", "Woodrow", and "Uncle Woody", departed this life on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at the age of 70. Born on March 13, 1956, in Fredericksburg, Virginia, Wardell spent his entire life in the community he proudly called home. Wardell dedicated many years of his professional life as a Building Maintenance Manager, earning the respect of coworkers and friends through his strong work ethic, dependability, and commitment to excellence. While he took great pride in his career, his greatest passion was always music.

From the time he was a little boy, Wardell had an extraordinary gift for playing the drums. His talent flourished as a member of the James Monroe High School Marching Band under the direction of Ronald Jordan, where he developed into the skilled and funky drummer so many admired. Throughout his life, he became much more than a musician—he became a mentor, role model, and instructor to countless drummers throughout the Fredericksburg area, generously sharing his passion and knowledge with others.

Wardell was a true connoisseur of Soul and Funk music and one of his greatest joys was spending hours in his beloved "back room," surrounded by music that fed his soul. His playlists often featured legends such as James Brown, The New Birth, Archie Bell & the Drells, Bootsy Collins & The Rubber Band, Morris Day & The Time, The Bar-Kays, The Stylistics, Parliament-Funkadelic, and The Temprees, just to name a few. Beyond Soul and Funk, he also had a deep appreciation for Reggae music and was a devoted fan of Bob Marley.

His love for life extended far beyond music. Wardell found peace in nature and had an enormous heart for animals, especially German Shepherds, a breed he cherished throughout much of his life. Although declining health eventually prevented him from caring for them, his love for them never faded.

To know Wardell was to know laughter. He was hardworking, hilarious, effortlessly cool as a cucumber, and often the life of every gathering. A gifted storyteller and natural comedian, he had a way of making everyone around him smile. His many catchphrases and unforgettable sayings became part of the memories his family and friends will treasure forever. Wardell also possessed a heart of gold and an incredible gift in the kitchen. He found genuine happiness in preparing meals and bringing people together around the table, never hesitating to cook for family, friends, and anyone fortunate enough to stop by.

One of the greatest blessings of Wardell's life was meeting the love of his life, Donna. Their story began through music while Wardell played drums in a band where Donna was the lead singer. Their shared love of music blossomed into a lifelong love story, and they were united in marriage on December 20, 1986. Together they built a life centered on love, family, faith, laughter, and unwavering devotion.

Wardell leaves to cherish his precious memories his devoted wife, Donna Armstead-Woolfolk; his children, Wardell Gregory Woolfolk Jr. (Michelle), Alexia Woolfolk, and India Woolfolk; his beloved grandchildren, Aydin Woolfolk, Kyndal Woolfolk, Gregory Robinson, Maks Woolfolk, Jaiden Robinson, and Reign Keels, all of whom lovingly knew him as "Bo-Bo."

He is also survived by his brother, Eddie Woolfolk Jr. (Emma), along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, lifelong friends, and the many musicians whose lives he touched. A special mention is reserved for his beloved niece, "Chutie," with whom he shared countless treasured moments in recent years while babysitting her alongside his granddaughter, Reign. Those moments brought him immeasurable joy and became some of his most cherished memories in his last years.

Wardell was preceded in death by his loving parents, Frances Berkeley Woolfolk and Eddie Woolfolk Sr.; his sister, Melissa Renee Lewis; and his brother, London Woolfolk (Carolyn).

Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we celebrate a life beautifully lived. Wardell leaves behind a legacy of music, laughter, mentorship, unconditional love, and unforgettable memories. His rhythm will continue to echo in every beat of a drum, every soulful melody, every family gathering filled with laughter, and in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love him. His song may have ended, but the rhythm of his life will play on forever.

A viewing will be held at Shiloh Baptist Church (Old Site), 801 Sophia Street, Fredericksburg, VA, 22401, on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 10:00 AM followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 AM. The interment will follow at Falmouth Cemetery, 80 Butler Road, Fredericksburg, VA, 22401..