The Day the Ocean Took Woody: A Coastal Tragedy in Port Orford

A Family Outing Turns Tragic

On January 15, 2017, a sunny afternoon at Boice-Cope State Beach near Port Orford, Oregon, turned into a nightmare for the Thomas family. Charity Woodrum, her husband Jayson Thomas, and their three-year-old son Woody were enjoying the beach when an unexpected sneaker wave surged ashore. In a matter of seconds, both Jayson and Woody were swept into the ocean, leaving Charity helplessly watching as her loved ones disappeared beneath the waves .

The Search and Aftermath

Immediate search efforts were launched by the U.S. Coast Guard and local authorities, covering extensive areas of the coastline. Despite these efforts, neither Jayson nor Woody were found. The community rallied around Charity, offering support through a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral expenses and living costs, as Jayson had been the primary financial provider .

Remembering Woody

Woody Thomas was a vibrant three-year-old with brown hair and eyes, standing three feet tall and weighing 35 pounds. His disappearance is recorded in the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) under case number MP75134 . The tragedy of his loss serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictable dangers present along the Oregon coast.

Community Support and Healing

In the wake of the tragedy, the community's support was unwavering. Friends, family, and strangers alike contributed to the fundraising efforts, providing Charity with the means to navigate the difficult times ahead. The collective mourning and assistance highlighted the strength and compassion of the Port Orford community in the face of unimaginable loss ....Read More

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