Ruleville Mourns the Loss of Leroy Woodley, 55, Killed in Tragic Crash on Highway 8
RULEVILLE, MS — The community of Ruleville is in deep mourning following the tragic and untimely death of Leroy Woodley, a cherished 55-year-old resident who lost his life in a single-vehicle accident on June 27, 2025. The fatal crash, which occurred along a rural stretch of Highway 8 in Bolivar County, has left behind a wave of shock, sadness, and heartfelt grief among all who knew and loved him.
According to the Mississippi Highway Patrol, the accident took place early Friday morning. Initial reports indicate that Leroy was traveling eastbound when his vehicle veered off the roadway, struck a ditch, and overturned. Emergency responders were called to the scene, but despite life-saving efforts, Leroy was pronounced dead on-site. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, though authorities have not suspected foul play at this time.
The tragic loss has shaken the quiet town of Ruleville, where Leroy Woodley was more than just a familiar face — he was a beloved neighbor, a trusted friend, and a steady presence. Known for his strong work ethic, warm smile, and willingness to help anyone in need, Leroy’s absence is deeply felt across the community.
“He was the kind of man who’d give you the shirt off his back,” said longtime friend and neighbor Harold Jenkins. “Always lending a hand — whether it was helping you with your car, bringing groceries to an elderly neighbor, or just stopping by to check in.”
Leroy spent much of his adult life working in agricultural services throughout Sunflower and Bolivar counties. He was known to many farmers and laborers as a dependable and kindhearted man who took pride in a hard day’s work. Outside of work, Leroy was often seen riding his old bicycle through town, sharing laughs with friends at the local diner, or cheering for his favorite football team on Sundays.
A devoted family man, Leroy is survived by his two daughters, Jasmine and Aleah Woodley, and three grandchildren, who he adored and often spoke about with pride. To his family, he was a pillar of strength and love — a man who led by example and taught the value of humility, compassion, and resilience.
“Losing my daddy feels like losing a piece of myself,” said his daughter Jasmine in an emotional statement. “He taught me how to stand tall, even when life tried to knock me down. He was my hero.”
As the town grapples with the enormity of the loss, residents have come together in a display of unity and compassion. A growing memorial of flowers, candles, and handwritten notes now lines the roadside near the site of the accident. A community vigil is planned for Sunday evening at Ruleville City Park, where friends and loved ones will gather to honor Leroy’s life and legacy.
Ruleville Mayor Katrina Scott offered her condolences in a statement released Friday afternoon, calling Leroy’s passing “a heartbreaking loss for the entire town.” She continued, “Leroy embodied the spirit of Ruleville — humble, hardworking, and deeply rooted in community. He will be sorely missed.”
Funeral arrangements are currently being made by Walker Memorial Funeral Home in Ruleville, with services expected to take place later next week. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time but has expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support and prayers from neighbors and friends near and far.
In a world that often rushes by, Leroy Woodley stood as a quiet reminder of the values that truly matter — kindness, loyalty, and integrity. As Ruleville says goodbye to one of its own, the memory of Leroy will continue to echo in the hearts of all who knew him, and his legacy will live on in the lives he touched