Woody Lawrence BigBow, 66, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

      Woody was born on June 8, 1960, in Oklahoma City to Lawrence “Larry” and Jean BigBow of Oklahoma City. He was the great-great-grandson of War Chief BigBow of the Kiowa Tribe, and Woody embraced this noble heritage throughout his life. Woody graduated in 1977 from NorthEast High School in Oklahoma City, where he excelled in track and field. He later went on to run the Boston Marathon, which was one of his many accomplishments.

     He had a great love for the beautiful outdoors and spent much of his time in one of his favorite places, Taos Pueblo, New Mexico. He was an avid snow skier, golfer, OU football fan, and sportsman. He selflessly volunteered his time and efforts to the OU Special Olympics and OU track and field events. Woody had a passion for hot rods, stock cars, and drag racing. He dedicated many years to Midwest Auto Supply and Parr Automotive in Oklahoma City, where he developed his skill set and deepened his love for automobiles. He also worked for OG&E for a period of time after transitioning out of automobile work.

     Woody later went on to establish Oklahoma Stage Labor. Throughout his 30s and 40s, he traveled the United States and Canada as a roadie and stagehand, collaborating with many performing artists such as Elton John, The Beach Boys, Fleetwood Mac, Kenny Loggins, Bruce Springsteen, Metallica, Steve Miller Band, REO. Speedwagon, The Who, and his favorite, Dan Fogelberg, just to name a few. He was trusted and admired throughout the performing arts industry, gaining great acclaim.

     Woody is survived by his mother, Jean BigBow; his son, Grant Ward; his sister, Dereth Lanius, and her husband, John Lanius; his niece, Keesa Volesky; his lifelong family friends, Serge Diehl and his sister, Sollie Diehl; Joan Bowers, his longtime partner, who was beside him to the very end; and his beloved dog, Cooper.

     Woody was preceded in death by his father, Lawrence “Larry” BigBow; his son, Brandon Ward; his uncle, Steve BigBow; his aunt, Loretta BigBow; and his beloved dog, Rowdy.

      Woody was loved by many, and he touched the lives and hearts of countless individuals. May his soul rest in peace, and may the memory of his strength and courage last eternally.