January 17, 2025, 87, Wilmington —
James (Bill) Woodard passed away Friday, January 17, 2025 in Wilmington at age 87.
Bill grew up on a tobacco farm in rural Johnston County where he learned the importance of God, country, family, and hard work. After attending Glendale School through the tenth grade, Bill attended and graduated from Oak Ridge Military Institute. Bill then enrolled in University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and graduated from the Pharmacy School.
While at UNC, Bill was fortunate enough to meet and marry the love of his life, Joyce Flowers. They were married for over 67 years. After graduation from UNC, Bill and Joyce worked as a pharmacist and teacher. They subsequently moved to Wilmington, N. C. and together owned and operated two drug stores.
After retiring from pharmacy, Bill and Joyce became interested in tax preparations and eventually purchased and managed a Liberty Tax franchise. Bill always enjoyed participating and observing sports. He played varsity basketball at Oak Ridge Military Institute and later became an avid golfer. He was a lifelong UNC fan and especially enjoyed attending UNC football and basketball games. In addition to sports, cards were a favorite hobby. Bill and Joyce were both excellent bridge players and earned their Life Masters in Duplicate Bridge. Another favorite hobby was listening to and dancing to beach music.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, James Cleon Woodard and Virginia Gilbert Woodard. Surviving relatives are: his wife, Joyce, Wilmington, NC; brother, Dr. Jerry Woodard (Wanda), Wilson, NC; niece Jerrilyn Entrekin (Andy), Bedford, TX; nephew, Jason Woodard (Kristi), Raleigh, NC.
A graveside service to honor Jame’s life will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. in the Kenly Cemetery. The family will receive friends following the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made in James’s honor to, Pine Valley Methodist Church building fund, 3788 Shipyard Blvd, Wilmington, NC 28403.
Services have been entrusted to Kenly Funeral Service.
