William E. "Bill" Woodard

William E. ‘Bill’ Woodard was born October 9, 1936 in Hillsdale, TN and passed away peacefully in Nashville October 7, 2026 just shy of his 90^th birthday. He is predeceased by his parents Edgar and Ruth (Haley) Woodard and brother Edgar (Catherine) Woodard. He is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Janice; 2 sons Glen (Jill) and Gary (Janet); and 3 grandchildren Katelyn, Emily and Erin Woodard as well as nephew Paul Woodard and niece Tracy (Justin) Herdman and their children Connor and Spencer.

Bill leaves behind a legacy of compassion, kindness and commitment. A follower of Christ since 5^th grade, he was baptized in Hartsville’s Goose Creek. He attended Cohn High school where he met Janice and excelled at basketball, multiple styles of dance and roller skating. He became an avid bowler and golfer, making lifelong friends along the way. Bill loved to travel, and he and Janice visited every state as well as several other countries. He worked most of his life in the telecom industry, always making time for his family first. Bill was a charter member of Bellevue Baptist Church where he served as a deacon, hosted Room in the Inn for 30 years and went on various mission and youth trips for more than 50 years with Janice at his side. Known at different points in his life as Bill, William and Woody, his favorite name was when his granddaughters called him Papa. His entire life echoed his priorities of God first, family second, friends and neighbors third.

A celebration of his life will be scheduled later this fall at Bellevue Baptist Church.

Arrangements are in the care of: Compassion Funeral & Cremation Services, 6949 Charlotte Pike, Suite 104, Nashville, TN 37209. (615) 857-9955. We are proud to be locally owned and operated.