In Rembrance of John Woodworth
by Pete Grignon, United Way of Pierce County's Senior Vice President of Finance/CFO
If you've owned a company or a parking lot in Pierce County over the past century, chances are you've heard of—or even hired—Woodworth & Co. for paving and construction projects across the region, from Orting to Tacoma.
You might not know that the Woodworth family has left an even greater legacy beyond their public projects. They've dedicated their time and resources to countless good causes, including United Way of Pierce County, Boys & Girls Clubs, Tacoma Art Museum, YMCA, and many more.
Following in his father's footsteps, John Woodworth served as a vital link between Tacoma and Pierce County community leaders from the 1920s and those shaping the future today.
Even after retiring, John continued to nurture the region through the Woodworth Family Foundation, now under the active leadership of his son, Jeff Woodworth.
The foundation has supported local arts, higher education, early learning, health care, animal welfare, and human services at United Way and dozens of other nonprofits through grants and gifts. But John's contributions didn't stop there—he spent six decades serving as a United Way board member, campaign chair, and a trusted advisor to nonprofit leaders.
John Woodworth's leadership and generosity created a legacy that will continue to shape the community for generations.