George Thomas Wooden

The family of George Thomas Wooden from Fairfield, CA (until recently) is saddened to announce his passing on August 25, 2025 at the age of 94.

Born in Chandler, Oklahoma, November 22, 1930, George grew up during the Great Depression, and World War II. He excelled in sports, especially football, and at seventeen, this shy country kid boarded a train (his first time) pursuing a dream of playing for a major university. This single act of courage, changed the trajectory of his life and that of his future generations. As a “walk-on”, he earned a football scholarship to Oklahoma A&M, the first of his family ever to attend college (and he was proud, not the last). His senior year as wide receiver, he led the nation in receptions until the last game of the year. George met the love of his life, Jane, at college on a blind date and they married soon after graduation. They had 73 years together.

Though drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles, George was committed to the Army. He served during the Korean War as a trainer for soldiers headed to battle, at Fort Ord, Ca. Then, on to a near 40 year career he enjoyed, as a Teacher & Coach, retiring from Solano College after 29 years. He shared that his favorite part was coaching Track & Cross Country, helping athletes reach their goals. Many of his athletes reached the CA State competitions/finals.

George & Jane pursued other investments, businesses over the years, never afraid of hard work. In his later years, he wrote cherished stories of growing up, was a voracious reader & crossword puzzle enthusiast. He rarely missed a Giants baseball game on TV & always looked forward to daughter Tami’s updates on her American River football team.

His family will always consider him their hero & role model. He had a quick wit, was fiercely loyal, had a positive attitude, always grateful & never complained. Most of all, he loved & adored his entire family.

He is survived by his wife Jane Wooden; 3 children – Tara Dacus (Dave), Dirk Wooden (Michele), Tami Wooden; 2 grandchildren – Shannon Nobili (Brock) & Anna Wooden; Great grandchildren – Luke, Gabe & Khloe Nobili; His youngest sister, Jewel Carter (Roger).

George was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Anna Wooden; brothers Lewis Wooden, Charles Wooden, Robert wooden Jr; and sisters Connie Davidson-Capps, Violet Wooden, and Anna Lee Davidson.

The immediate family held a Celebration of Life for George Thomas Wooden on August 28,2025. Jane shared, “He wouldn’t want us to be sad. He had a long, productive & happy life…but HE will be missed.”