Former Louisiana SLD Albert Buford “Sonny” Woodall Passes Away

Shreveport, Louisiana — It is with deep respect and sorrow that SMART-TD honors the life and legacy of Brother Albert Buford “Sonny” Woodall, who passed away on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at the age of 94. 

With a career spanning over four decades, Sonny dedicated much of his life to advocating for railroad workers. He was the Louisiana State Safety and Legislative Director for our predecessor union, the United Transportation Union (UTU), for 22 years. His relentless commitment to improving safety and increasing the respect given to his fellow workers is the hallmark of his legacy. Through his tireless efforts, Sonny played a pivotal role in crafting and supporting legislation that directly impacted the welfare of our Louisiana members, ensuring that they had safer working conditions and job security. 

Brother Gary Duval, the state safety and legislative director who succeeded Sonny, and current Louisiana SLD Chris Christianson, wish to extend their deepest condolences to Sonny’s family and the brothers and sisters of Local 976, where Sonny was a beloved figure.  

Christianson shared that he always looked forward to seeing Sonny come through his door. “Sonny always had great railroad stories, but more than that, I was always grateful for his willingness to share the wealth of institutional knowledge he had accumulated over his long and distinguished career. His dedication to our union and to every member in it was unwavering, and his presence will be sorely missed.” 

Sonny’s contributions to our union and the broader railroad community were immeasurable. His memory will live on in the policies and practices that continue to protect and benefit our members today. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and we offer our gratitude for the indelible mark Sonny Woodall left on our union and the railroad industry.