Durwood Colin Hargett, known affectionately as “Woody,” passed away on July 10, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, hard work, and love for his family. He was born in West Point, GA, on January 14, 1943. Woody’s early life was marked by struggle, having grown up in poverty, picking cotton for the cotton mills of his hometown. Determined to create a better future for himself, he enlisted in the United States Air Force straight out of high school and served in the Vietnam War from 1961-1965.
After his military service, Woody went on to work for over 30 years for the NSA (National Security Agency), with two tours overseas in England and Germany. He was a diligent employee who took pride in his work and made significant contributions to the agency.
Woody was a man of many interests and passions. He enjoyed spending time with his family, watching English and German soccer games, reading about the Civil War, listening to Jimmy Buffett’s music, cheering on the Orioles and University of Maryland teams, and making his famous chocolate fudge during the holidays. His dedication to learning was evident in his educational pursuits as well. He earned his Undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland and later obtained his Master’s degree from Central Michigan University.
One of Woody’s proudest accomplishments was his family. He was married to his wife Claire “Candy” Hargett for 57 years and they had one daughter, Jennifer. Woody loved being a dad and enjoyed coaching her in softball and soccer, always being her #1 fan. He was also incredibly proud of his three grandchildren – Cailyn, Jacob, and Cowen Cherry. Their growth and achievements brought him immense joy.
Woody is preceded in death by his mother Kate Hambrick, stepfather Hilton Hambrick, and half-brother Michael “Mick” Newton. He is survived by his loving wife Claire “Candy” Hargett, daughter Jennifer (Jon) Cherry, grandchildren Cailyn, Jacob, and Cowen Cherry, brothers Gary Hargett and Joe Hargett, sister Melody Harrison, as well as other relatives and friends. Woody will be remembered for his strength of character, unwavering determination, and boundless love for his family. His presence will be deeply missed but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. May he rest in peace.
A Funeral Mass will take place at Church of the Resurrection 3175 Paulskirk Drive, Ellicott City, MD 21042 at 10 AM on Friday, July 19, 2024 with burial at Crest Lawn Memorial Gardens immediately following. In lieu of flowers, his family asks that donations be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (T2T.org).
