William "Bill" Woodard

Woodard, William T. "Bill", passed away on April 6th, 2013 at Chiefland Haven Hospice. Mr. Woodard was born to David Woodard and Bell Tyre Woodard on October 26, 1926. He was born in Gainesville, and lived all of his life here. Bill was a Navy veteran of WWII (Invasion of Okinawa), and loved his country. He passed the importance of loving one's country to all his children and grandchildren. He was a past Post Commander of the VFW, as well as, a life member of the VFW. During his time of being commander he helped to bring the VA Hospital to Gainesville. Being born and raised in southeast Gainesville, he loved eating at Louis' Hamburgers. Bill was an avid Gator fan and was quick to let people know that he bled Orange and Blue. He was a big supporter of Gainesville High school sports. During the mid 70's to 1981 Bill enjoyed playing the part of "Mr. 2 Bits" for Eastside High Rams as his son played football whether it be at Citizen Field or traveling to an away game. Bill loved camping, fishing, NASCAR, and hunting. He enjoyed attending Gospel Sings at the Spirit of the Suwannee and many different churches. Bill was currently attending Eden Baptist Church. Bill worked for many different builders in Gainesville, he was a master Carpenter, and some of his accomplishments around the Gainesville community include building the very first Sonny's on Waldo Rd, and the Curtis Newsom Porta Potty Building. He enjoyed and was always proud to show the many homes, and buildings, he built in Gainesville. Later he retired from Village and Forest Green Apartments after 25 years, and was with CARQUEST, for 15 years before retiring with them. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, Lloyd, Russell, and Floyd Woodard, one sister, Margie Cassidy. Bill is survived by his Loving wife of 31 years Susanne, His children, Darla Schultz, Tom Woodard, Randy Woodard, Ronnie Wolz, Sharon Gay and Lynn Strickland, four grandchildren. Randall, Brent, and Katrina Woodard, and Gracie Strickland. His sister, Dot Moody of Ocala, and three sister-in-laws, Martha Woody of Gainesville, Bernice Woodard of Micanopy and Cindy Woodard of Oklahoma. "I love you Papa. My Papa had the joy of Jesus in his heart." Gracie Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, April 11, 2013 at 3:00 p.m. at Eden Baptist Church, Hawthorne, The family will receive friends for one and a half hour prior to the service. Burial with Military Honors will be held at Forest Meadows Memorial Park, East, in the Military Garden of Honor. In Lieu of Flowers Expressions of Sympathy may be made to Tri County Haven Hospice or to the VFW.

William "Bill" Woodard

April 9, 2013