James Leroy Underwood II

James Leroy Underwood, II, was born February 2, 1966, in Denver, Colorado, the only son to James L. and Pearl C. Underwood. He entered into rest on May 19, 2020.  

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, James L. and Pearl C. Underwood.  He leaves behind his wife, Jeanine Underwood, his daughter, Grace Underwood, as well as his stepson Matthew Smith. He is also survived by sisters, Pam Underwood and Patti (Tom) Donnegan, his twin, nephews; Thomas, Ryan and Tim and nieces; Cathi, Kristen, Molly and Maggie.   

He was known to many as Woody, and to some as Jim or Jimmy.  He was also known as a friend, son, brother, husband, father and uncle.  

Since a very young age Woody spent his life in service.  In eighth grade, he began a journey with the Arapahoe Rescue Patrol, a search and rescue organization, that ultimately carved out who he was as a person.  He attended Littleton High School and joined the Army after graduation, where he served in combat and the Military Police.  His career brought him to Germany, Panama and Honduras as well as stateside.  Jim went on to become a civilian police officer serving with the  Sheridan PD, Douglas County SO and Elbert County SO.  He was a servant to those who needed him and a man of God.  Jim was passionate about helping children, whether it be mentoring troubled teens, investigating crimes against kids, or working with a youth group.  Jim was awarded the 18th Judicial District Mike Bell Investigator of the year award, in 2005.

On June 1, 1996, Woody married the love of his life, Jeanine Smith, and became stepfather to Matthew Smith.  The two had a daughter, Grace Catherine, who would be his greatest joy!  With family and friends, he enjoyed our beautiful mountains, camping, boating, fishing, singing and crab legs.  He loved the Broncos, Rockies and Avalanche and enjoyed going to the games.

Jim Underwood was a mountain of a man, with a tender heart bigger than he was.  He was one of the funniest men to ever live.  He was a force to be reckoned with, but gentle enough to calm a newborn baby. He was a great friend and loyal to a fault.  Jim was a patriot and very proud of his country and being a veteran.  His greatest dream was to visit Arlington National Cemetery, which he did.  

His life's journey made him a public servant, a job he did well.  His presence touched and saved numerous lives, many of which he never knew about.  However, the personal price he paid was high. The demons that grew within became insurmountable. These demons were his undoing and ultimately what took him.  He gave so much to others and left so little for himself.  

Jim treasured his relationship with Jesus Christ and was ready to enter his eternal place of peace, in heaven.  

A graveside service with full military honors will be held on Thursday, July 23, 2020 at 9:30 A.M. (staging area B).  

*  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: PTSD Donation for Veterans https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/ or to your charity of choice in Woody's name and memory.

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