In Loving Memory of William Woodland A Devoted Public Servant, Cherished Family Man, and Pillar of the Bannock County Community
The entire Bannock County community is enveloped in profound sorrow as we mourn the heartbreaking loss of 84-year-old William Woodland, who was found deceased on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. After days of searching, hoping, and praying for his safe return, the news of his passing has cast a somber shadow across the region he faithfully served for decades.
Mr. Woodland was reported missing by his family on the evening of Sunday, December 7. What followed was an extensive, multi-agency search that spanned rugged terrain, frigid temperatures, and long hours. Volunteers, officers, pilots, and rescue teams worked tirelessly, driven by deep respect for a man who had devoted so much of his life to the service of others.
It was after a tip from a community member that detectives and deputies were able to locate Mr. Woodland on South Putnam Mountain—a discovery that brought both closure and sorrow. His family has since been notified, and the community grieves alongside them.
William Woodland leaves behind an extraordinary legacy. A former Bannock County District Judge, he served honorably and steadfastly for more than 20 years, shaping countless lives and playing a vital role in upholding justice throughout the region. His career on the bench was marked by fairness, integrity, and deep compassion—qualities that made him not only a respected judge but a deeply valued human being. He retired in 2022, leaving behind a profound impact on both the justice system and the many people whose paths crossed his.
Sheriff Tony Manu expressed what so many across Bannock County feel in this painful moment.
“I want to extend the deepest condolences of the entire Bannock County Sheriff’s Office to the Woodland family,” Sheriff Manu said. “Judge Woodland was a pillar of our community and the justice system.”
His words echo the sentiment held by colleagues, friends, and residents who knew Mr. Woodland as a dedicated public servant, a wise leader, and a man whose quiet strength left a lasting mark.
In the midst of grief, the Bannock County Sheriff’s Office offered heartfelt appreciation to the countless individuals and agencies who united in the search for Mr. Woodland. Their efforts reflected not only diligence and professionalism but deep admiration for the man they sought. Contributions came from Bannock County Search & Rescue, the Idaho State Police, Portneuf Air Rescue, the Pocatello Police Department, Fort Hall Police, Fort Hall Fish & Game, and sheriff’s offices across Bingham, Twin Falls, Butte, Power, and Caribou counties.
This collective effort stands as a powerful testament to how deeply Mr. Woodland was respected.
Beyond his professional achievements, William Woodland will be remembered for the warmth he brought to his family, the wisdom he shared with colleagues, and the stability he offered his community. He was a mentor, a voice of reason, and a steady presence whose influence will be felt for many years to come.
Today, Bannock County remembers not just a judge, but a man who embodied dedication, humility, and service. While his passing is an immeasurable loss, his legacy remains firmly rooted in the hearts of those who knew him and in the community he spent much of his life protecting, guiding, and strengthening.
May his memory remain a blessing, may his family find comfort in the outpouring of love surrounding them, and may the legacy of Judge William Woodland continue to inspire future generations.
Rest in peace, Judge Woodland. Your service, your integrity, and your life will never be forgotten.