James Woodward, Sr.

Born in Nashville, TN on October 21, 1931 Departed on October 5, 2016 and resided in Hendersonville, TN Visitation: Hendersonville Funeral Home Room: Stateroom ASunday October 9, 2016 2:00pm to 6:00pmMonday October 10, 2016 10:00am to 11:00amLife Celebration: Hendersonville Funeral Home Room: ChapelMonday October 10, 2016 11:00am to 12:00pm

James C. "Woody" Woodward, Sr. passed on to his heavenly dwelling on October 5, 2016 at 84 years of age.

James was known as a husband, father, grandfather, and friend of many. He will be deeply missed by all those whose paths crossed his. He leaves behind a tremendous legacy as a caring, giving, compassionate man who lived a heroic life. His mother and father were two individuals most influential in forming him into the wonderful man we all knew and loved.

After twenty-plus years of distinguished service in the United States Air Force, James retired from his military career. He went on to work for the United States Postal Service for thirty-six years before finally retiring for good. To say he was hard-working might possibly be an understatement. Everything he did, he did to the best of his abilities and he was dependable. His dedication is certainly an example for all to follow.

In his spare time, James had a few hobbies. He was a classic car enthusiast who loved to hear and feel the power of a "real" car. There's just something about the shine of chrome, a flawless paint job, and the sleek lines of the classics that would catch any eye. He followed football and baseball closely and watched many games to stay on top of the stats. The sounds of jazz spoke most to his soul when it came to music.

Spending time with family held pride of place; in fact, Christmas and Thanksgiving Dinners were always spent together. He loved his grandchildren and especially enjoyed being at Sydney's softball games. Some of his favorite places to be were Gatlinburg, Drake's Creek Park, Old Hickory Lake, and at his home. All of these places have one thing in common; namely, family was there together. Whether grilling out, watching the boats go by, feeding the ducks, or taking in the sights of the mountains in Gatlinburg family made it special.

He had a taste for a good ribeye, peanut butter and strawberry jelly, and he'd wash it all down with iced tea or a coke. I know he was my kind of guy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Calvin and Nubie Woodward; sister, Ruby Bennett; brother, Gerald Woodward; and his wife of 53 years, Linda S. Woodward. James leaves behind his son, James C. (Risa) Woodward; daughter, Michele Woodward Collins; five grandchildren, Brianna Woodward, Gabriel Collins, Callie Woodward, Sophia Collins, and Sydney Woodward; sister, Judy (Phil) Claiborne; and several nieces, nephews, and other extended family members.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in James' honor to Alive Hospice of Nashville or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, October 9, 2016 from 2 p.m.-6 p.m. and again on Monday, October 10, 2016 from 10 a.m.-11 a.m. A Life Celebration will follow visitation Monday at 11 a.m. All will be held at Hendersonville Funeral Home, 353 E. Main Street, Hendersonville, TN 37075 hendersonvillefh.com 615-824-3855