Eldridge C. Woodard, 98, of Ocoee, Florida, formerly of Fitzgerald, GA, died at Emeritus Assisted Living Center in Ocoee, Fl.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M., Wednesday, December 29, 2010, at Central United Methodist Church in Fitzgerald with the Rev. Keith Goodlett officiating. Interment will follow in Ocilla Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 7 until 9 Tuesday evening at the funeral home.
Mr. Woodard was born December 8, 1912 in Waycross, GA to the late Jesse and Sallie Griffin Woodard. Retired with 42 years of service, he worked as Manager for Rogers and Colonial Stores in Fitzgerald, Ocilla, and Ashburn. For 70 years he was a Mason and Shriner serving also with the Hillbilly Clan. Mr. Woodard was a member of Central United Methodist Church and the Mark Mathis Sunday School Class. He served in the United States Navy during World War II and was a member of the American Legion. Throughout his life, his passions were his family, being friendly and helping people. He loved fishing and spent many enjoyable times over the years on the St. John's River in Florida.
He is survived by sons and daughters-in-laws: Robert E. and Sandra Woodard and Ronald S. and Maribell Woodard, all of Windermere, FL; grandson, Steve and Julie Woodard of Gainesville, FL; great grandchildren: Jesse and Jacob Woodard; sister, Edwina Mathis of Albany, GA, as well as, several nieces and nephews. Along with his parents he was prededed in death by his wife of 74 years, Mildred H. Woodard.
Memorials may be sent to Central United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 428, Fitzgerald, GA 31750 or Shriner's Hospital for Children, Hasan Temple, 1822 Palmyra Rd., Albany, GA 31701.