Roll Call Tribute

George Woodard, III 

September 11, 1955 - October 10, 2024 

George Woodard, known as "Big Woo", passed away in Arlington, Texas, October 10, 2024 at age 69. 

On Sunday, September 11, 1955, Addie Smith and George Woodard, Jr. welcomed their son, George Woodard, III, into the world. Growing up in a lively home with his parents and five siblings, George's childhood was full of excitement. From an early age, George showed a natural athletic ability, excelling in various sports. He was quick on his feet, especially in track, where he anchored the 4x100m relay team. His dedication to training was evident as he would run 12 miles from Cedar Lake to Cedar Lane every morning before school, where his mom would pick him up and take him the rest of the way. George’s talent also stood out in football, capturing the attention of scouts nationwide during his time at Van Vleck High School. His family remembers the excitement of recruiters visiting their home, similar to a scene from "The Blind Side," eager to sign George. After graduating in 1975, he accepted a full scholarship to play football at Texas A&M University, where he was inducted into the Texas A&M Athletics Hall of Fame in 2018. His 17 touchdowns in 1976 was a school and Southwest Conference record. He was a four-year letterman. George Woodard, #33, was a part of then head coach Emory Bellard’s wishbone offense. 

Despite many believing he would pursue a coaching career, George chose a different path, majoring in business. A softball injury during his time at A&M shifted his focus, though he was drafted and spent time playing for the New Orleans Saints and Houston Oilers. Ultimately, George stepped away from professional football and returned home and began working for Phillips and later Matagorda County. During this time, he and his wife were blessed with two daughters, Crystal and Kendra.

In 2006, George sought a fresh start and moved to Arlington, Texas. On March 24, 2008, he married Joyce, and they shared a joyful life together, parenting Nicholas, Sandra, and Herbert. George took on the role of Senior Store Clerk with the City of Dallas, working diligently until his retirement in January 2024. Retirement brought him the freedom to pursue his passions, particularly fishing, often taking his mother along. He loved hosting family gatherings, including fish fries and crab boils, cherishing time spent with loved ones. Family always came first for George, and he was never more than a phone call away when someone needed help. Whether it was assembling toys or fixing things around the house, George was always there, embodying a spirit of service and selflessness.

His dedication extended to his faith as well, serving in the food distribution ministry at Forest Hill Church of Christ, where he was a devoted member. His commitment to his Christian Walk was reaffirmed on April 23, 2024, when he rededicated his life to Christ and was baptized.

On Thursday, October 10, 2024, George left us unexpectedly. As Christians, we hold to the belief that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. While we celebrate his eternal rest, we also deeply feel his absence. We’ll miss seeing him in his favorite lounge chair, the TV turned up loud, watching Texas A&M or Dallas Cowboys games or enjoying a good horror movie. We’ll miss his pristine truck, his love for seafood and pound cake, and the early morning text messages he would send to his siblings, even when they weren’t awake. We’ll miss his beautifully manicured lawn and the weekly calls to check in with family and friends. Above all, we’ll miss the warmth, kindness, and love he brought to all who knew him.

George leaves behind a legacy of love and service that will forever be cherished by his wife, Joyce Martin Woodard, and his children: Crystal Woodard of Bay City, TX, Nicholas Woodard of Arlington, TX, Kendra Sullivan of Bay City, TX, Sandra Brown of Red Oak, TX, and Herbert Durgan of Bay City, TX. He is also survived by his mother, Addie Smith of Sargent, TX; siblings: Uvon (Robert) Jackson of Freeport, TX, Maudester (Michael) Woodard-Hall of Bay City, TX, Velia Smith of Sargent, TX, Linda (Melvin) Williams of Brazoria, TX, and Ronnie Woodard of Sargent, TX; sister-in-laws Jennifer Martin, Melinda McAfee, and Nellie Odom; grandchildren: Kayla Bill, De’Kenley Dixon, Marcus Fowler, Quinton Sims, and DeKorean Woodard-Brooks; and a host of nieces, nephews, and other loved ones.

We also remember his beloved father George Woodard, Jr. and sister Valerie Woodard, who preceded him in death.