Mother Josephine B. Woodard

To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; A time to plant, and a time to pluck what is planted. (Ecclesiastes 3:1-2) NKJV Josephine Bryant Woodard aka “Jo, Josie, Big Sis, Ma Cute” was born April 8, 1935, in northeastern Leon County. She made her earthly transition into eternity in the early morning hours of Friday, May 12, 2023. She grew up in the rural communities of Orchard Pond/Lake Jackson and raised under the loving care of her grandparents Herbert and Jennie Bryant and Lester and Sallie Bryant-Hackley. Her early education began in a rural schoolhouse in the Kirksey Community. Upon completion, she attended the “Original” Lincoln High School, graduating in the class of 1954. Her journey with the Lord began early in life. She was baptized and joined the Bethelonia AME Church where she served faithfully as an usher and served on various boards. Later in life, she moved to Quincy, Florida and continued to serve the Lord. She joined Mt. Zion PB Church under the leadership of Reverend Gee. She and Mother King organized the Matrons Auxiliary. Her love for people inspired her to start a community outreach program and Willing Workers Club. She utilized her skills and creativity to make items to enrich the church. She also sang in the church choir and was an affiliate member of the Christian Women Club and Eastern Star. Her working career began at the Phipps Plantation where she realized her passion and gift to provide care for others which led her to the Healthcare field where she worked for Sunland and Florida State Hospitals. She enhanced her training by enrolling at Tallahassee Community College. Upon retirement from Florida State Hospital, she began another career with Medical Center Home Health Service. She enjoyed life, laughed often, and loved much. Her hobbies included: Watching sports (especially if her family is participating); crocheting, art projects, travel, fishing and gardening. She leaves a legacy of remembrance to her daughter Vivian (Michael) Wagner, Crestview FL; Michael (Rosie) Woodard, Jacksonville, FL; Alton (Priscilla) Woodard, Warner Robins, GA; Grandchildren: Marvin George (Jovaun) Ellis, Clovis, NM; Rachel (Danny) Akley, Cooper, ME; Vicki (Matthew) Romero, Las Cruces, NM; Christina Wagner, Lincoln NE; Great Grands: Bella, Kingston, Canyon, Cole, Quinton, Tyler, Terrell, Devonte (Tiffany) Thomas, Sandersville, GA; Alton Jamal (Zinda), Augusta GA; and Aaron (Daizha) Woodard, Killeen, TX; Siblings: Dilcy Hogan and Geneva Westley of Tallahassee, FL, and Industry Brunson of Columbia SC; God Children, Patricia Franklin, Teresa Baker, and Willie Young; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and sorrowing friends.

Mother Josephine B. Woodard

April 8, 2023 - May 12, 2023