Thomas J. Woodland

Thomas J. Woodland, 84, of Lancaster, a devoted father, grandfather, accomplished professional, and dedicated community leader, passed away on Monday, August 3. 2026, leaving a legacy of kindness, public service, and deep devotion to his family and community. Born in Scranton, Tom excelled academically and on the gridiron. He graduated from Scranton Central High School and earned his bachelor’s degree from Amherst College in 1963. He pursued his passion for sports at both institutions, where he captained each football team. Tom completed his Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania and was later hired by IBM. Tom was drafted into the United States Army for its Medical Service Corp during the Vietnam War, where he taught how computers could improve patient care and hospital administration. He served honorably for three and a half years, rising to the rank of Captain at Ft. Sam Houston, San Antonio, TX. During this time, Tom also served as an Adjunct Professor of Accounting at St. Mary’s University. Tom and his wife, Ann, chose to live in Lancaster, with their two toddlers, Wendy and Jeff, because of their shared Pennsylvania roots and the strength of the Lancaster community. Tom worked for 33 years at Armstrong World Industries in executive management prior to his retirement. Deeply committed to giving back to the community he called home; Tom lent his time and energy to numerous civic and educational endeavors. He was elected as a Manheim Township Commissioner for 7 years where he later served as President. He also served as Trustee and President of the Lancaster Country Day School Board, held leadership roles as both President and Vice President of the United Way, and served as Chair of the YWCA’s financial committee, leaving a lasting impact on non-profit and educational advocacy across the extended Lancaster community. Tom found his greatest joy in the simple, meaningful moments of life — spending quality time with his family and friends, reading the Lancaster New Era (now the LNP), delving into historical biographies, and enjoying jazz, country and Christmas music. His family fondly remembers watching Star Wars films and action movies with him as well as laughing along to his favorite comedians Steve Martin, Mel Brooks, and Alan Alda. Tom was a wonderful and steadfast father to his children, Wendy, Jeff, Kim, Heather, and Brad. He was a proud grandfather to his 6 grandchildren: Andrew, Caroline, Kai, Alan, Blake, and Scarlett. Additional survivors are his sister Nancy Woodland Phillips (Bruce), sister-in-law Nancy Bennett Woodland, and his former wife Ann Woodland. Tom was pre-deceased by his parents John and Mary Woodland, brother Jack Woodland, and his second wife Sheila Woodland. Tom’s sharp intellect, dedication to public service, quiet generosity, and unwavering love for his family will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him. Family and friends are invited to Tom’s Celebration of Life at The Groffs Family Funeral Home, 528 W. Orange Street, Lancaster on Saturday, August 8, 2026 at 4 p.m. The family will receive visitors from 3 p.m. until the time of service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Manheim Township Public Library, where Tom volunteered, 595 Granite Run Drive, Lancaster, PA 17601. Please note checks should be made payable to The MTPL Foundation.

Thomas J. Woodland

August 3, 2026