Nettie Geneva Woodard

Family, friends and Gentiva watched over God’s child, Nettie Geneva Owen Woodard as she departed for his permanent care on Sunday, October 29, 2023.

Widow of William “Bill” Charles Woodard and last of maternal and paternal descendants, she leaves to cherish and carry memories her children, Janet, Donna, Sherri and Robert “Rob” (Terry) along with 10 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, friends and families,

Born November 23, 1925 in Buffalo, NY, she knew after moving to Kenmore, NJ, to Emporia, VA to Rosewood, NC; travel would be part of her passion. She missed only a few states. Schooled in Kenmore, Rosewood and Emporia, she earned scholarship to Mary Washington College with a transfer to RPI (now VCU) as an English major working part time at Western Union during WWII assisting with information on GIs and their correspondence.

After her marriage , not only a family did she pursue, but also driving which later in her life earned her CDL to drive a school bus.

She became an active member in Henrico County’s Fire Department Womens Auxiliary which assisted families affected by fire displacements.

Mrs. Woodard stayed busy driving buses for many schools, bookkeeping, typing, delivery, clerking, nursing (hospital and private care) all while maintaining the family home. She also was quite active in her church, Order of the Eastern Star, 4-H, girl scouts, boy scouts, bake sales and school functions. She never said NO.

Her pleasures after her family were devoted to piano, violin, writing, reading, singing, crocheting, knitting, mule, horse and pony riding, sewing, gardening and fishing, which she admitted was one of her few downfalls.

Being such a cook and foodie, her greatest times were at meals with friends and family sharing stories, hugs and kisses and she never turned away from the needy whether or not they were strangers.

There are countless loved ones who will forever cherish her memory, stories and love.

A private family interment service will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, November 2 at Princeton Cemetery, Princeton, NC.

A celebration of life service will be held 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Saturday, December 2, at Monumental United Methodist Church, Emporia, Virginia.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Gentiva Hospice or a charity of your choice.