Jimmie L. Woodard

Jimmie L. Woodard, 93, of Haines City, FL, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2025, at Winter Haven Hospital. Born on October 24, 1931, in Winter Haven, FL, to Roy and Edith Woodard, Jimmie was a lifelong resident of Winter Haven who cherished his community, his family, and his faith.

Jimmie attended Winter Haven schools during his formative and teenage years, where he built the foundation for his hardworking and disciplined nature. In 1950, he proudly joined the United States Army and was deployed to Germany, where he served with the 97th Signal Operation Battalion. This marked the beginning of his telecommunications career.

Upon his return from Germany in 1953, Jimmie continued his passion for telecommunications, working with Peninsula Telephone, GTE, and Verizon, dedicating 37 years to the industry.  During his time at GTE, Jimmie met the love of his life, Christine.  They would be married for 63 years, a true love story.

A devout Christian, Jimmie was an original charter member of Westwood Missionary Baptist Church. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he was a dedicated member of the church community, always demonstrating compassion and leadership.

Jimmie was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Christine H. Woodard, his parents Roy and Edith, his sister Betty Jean Mize, and his brother Carroll “Buddy” Woodard.

He is survived by sisters Barbara Strickland and Susie Jackson (Jim) his two children, daughter Christal Wilson (Doug) and son Stacy Woodard (Brenda); two grandchildren, Nicholas Woodard (Kristie) and Lauren Worbington (Austin); and two great-grandchildren, Jackson and Drew. Jimmie also leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved dearly.

An avid outdoorsman, Jimmie enjoyed hunting and fishing, with fishing being his favorite pastime. Whether casting a line or sharing stories of his adventures, Jimmie’s love for the outdoors was a defining part of his life.

Services to honor Jimmie’s remarkable life will be held on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at Oak Ridge Funeral Care, 2425 W. Havendale Blvd., Winter Haven, FL. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m.

Jimmie’s life was marked by unwavering devotion to his family, his faith, and his country. His legacy of love, kindness, and integrity will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.