Emma Woodard

Emma Dean Woodard, born September 7, 1948 in Memphis, Tennessee, went to be with her Lord and Savior on January 8, 2024, after 75 years of love and devotion to God, family, and those she cherished. She was preceded in heavenly life by Lucious Howard Turner and Mary Emma Bostic Turner, her parents; Yul Knox and Earl Strong, Jr., her natural and adopted sons; Erma Turner and Delores Evans, her twin and eldest sisters; and William Roach, James Evans, and Albert Curtis Roach, her brothers. A gifted student, Emma attended Porter Elementary and Carnes Elementary for her primary education. She graduated from Mitchell High School in the class of 1966. In a career defined by her passion for public service, Emma worked as a FTR clerk at the U.S. Postal Service, Memphis Bulk Mail Center. She later served as a circulation representative at the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library - Memphis Public Library. She retired after 27 and 22 years, respectively, of distinguished service. Emma came to know God at an early age. She was baptized at Emmanuel Baptist Church, and as an adult, she worshipped at Golden Gate Cathedral under the guidance of Bishop Edward H. Stephens, Jr. She was a devoted member and proudly served on the Mother Board until her death. Emma was loving, caring, generous, and thoughtful. She had a keen sense of fashion and was known for her sassy personality. In her free time, Emma enjoyed solving crossword puzzles, a hobby that brought her joy and relaxation, and catching up on her vast list of DVR shows. She also spent time or traveled with some of her close groups of friends, including Ms. Shirley Hamm, Brian’s godmother; one group affectionately known as The Posse; and another group comprised of her former coworkers at the Memphis Public Library. She is survived by her husband Keith Woodard, her son Brian Woodard, Esq. (Chessa), her daughters Nicole Woodard and Markeita Penilton (Tony), and her last surviving sibling and sister, Zenie (Zenda) Terrell. Emma also leaves behind six grandchildren: Terrence Gregory, Christian Knox, Yukeita Knox, Joseph Knox, Braxtynne Woodard, and Breilynne Woodard; four great-grandchildren: Aniya Moore, Kailey Alford, Treyvion Williams, and Jamir Webb; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Emma lived an ordinary life filled with extraordinary experiences and people, including herself. She was a blessing to all who knew and loved her, and she will never be forgotten.

Emma Woodard

September 7, 1948 - January 8, 2024