Leander Woodard, affectionately known as Woody, was born to James and Bealie Woodard in Washington, D.C. on March 22, 1935. He was the fourth of seven children: James Woodard; predeceasing Leander were David Woodard, Lillie Mae Scott, Irene Woodard, Bewalford (Chuck) Woodard, and Pauline Dubose.
Professional Service and Career
Woody was a product of the New York City Public School system. He served his country faithfully in the U.S. Army, with a tour of duty in Japan during the Korean War. After a stint in the military, he began working with Ordi Construction Company in Bronx, New York. His career in the building and construction trade spanned many, many years, and his prowess as a construction engineer was recognized by his superiors, eventually resulting in his becoming a building inspector, and subsequently a Construction Superintendent for the City of New York. Before retiring in 2002, while busily at his designated place of employment, he witnessed first hand much of the catastrophic events of 9-11, having walked from lower Manhattan to the George Washington Bridge to escape the devastating aftermath.
The Man so Many Loved
His disarmingly friendly nature drew to him legions of friends and acquaintances. His congenial personality would lead most to say, “Woody never met a stranger.” And who could forget his infectious warmth, his endearing demeanor, his engaging intelligence and incomparable sense of humor? However, his greatest achievement culminated when he confessed the Lord Jesus and accepted the sacrifice made for him on the cross. Hallelujah!
Leander's Legacy
Leander's legacy includes his loving wife of over forty years – Meredith - a kind, giving, and selfless woman who was devoted to her family and one who filled her husband's days with joy and love; three children – Betty Jean Woodard-Oladapo (from a previous marriage), David L.Woodard, and Keisha C.Woodard (who confesses - “My dad was my best friend!”); three grandchildren - Phillip, Lawrence, and Sabrina; a brother, James (Jimmy Lee) Woodard; a mother-in-law, Lola M. Tubbs; sisters-in-law – Carolyn Woodard, Dr. Gazetta Holt-Roberts (Earl); brothers-in-law – Roy Dubose, Benjamin Reevers (Etta), and myriad nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Friends and family will be received on Thursday from 6-9 PM at Volk Leber Funeral Home, 789 Teaneck Road, Teaneck NJ. Funeral service Friday, Oct. 28th at First Baptist Church of Teaneck 1592 Teaneck Rd, Teaneck. Final viewing will be 10-11 AM with a service to follow at 11AM