Isaiah Woodard

Isaiah Samuel Woodard, known to all as "Sam Woodard," was a beacon of love and laughter, whose life journey began on February 17, 1948, in the heart of Arkansas. Born to Nora Lee Ridgell and Henry Woodard, Sam grew up in El Dorado, where he embraced education and excelled in football during his college years. His vibrant spirit and sense of independence shone through even in his youth, leading to memorable tales like the one involving a shotgun that saw his college days come to an unexpected end.

Sam's adventurous soul led him away from Arkansas to the bustling streets of Detroit, where he found not only a career at Ford Motor Company but also the love of his life, Janeria Redding. Their love blossomed into a beautiful family with the birth of two daughters, Tamika "Puttycat" and Tamara "Bug and Chief." Sam's heart was large enough to extend his family circle, welcoming his sister Lamar and his nephew Samuel Jerome "Big Boy" Woodard into his home, creating a household filled with warmth and laughter.

A true family man, Sam cherished his in-laws as if they were his own siblings, sharing countless moments with his brothers-in-law Wyles C., Talmedge, Wayne, Charles Redding Jr., Kindrell "Slim" Fletcher, and Sam Douglas. Together, they formed an unbreakable bond over shared drinks and stories, reinforcing the family's foundation with camaraderie and support.

Sam's generosity knew no bounds. He was the kind of neighbor who would ensure the children in his community never went to school hungry, even if his culinary skills were often the subject of friendly jest. His humor was infectious, and his love for food was just as immense as his love for people. Sam's presence was a source of joy and comfort to all who knew him.

On January 3, 2025, in Ashford, Alabama, Sam Woodard peacefully passed away due to natural causes, surrounded by the family he so deeply adored. His departure leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his spirit and the memories he created will forever be cherished.

Preceded in death by his parents, his sister Lamar Mcclain, and his daughter Tamara "Chief" Woodard, Sam's legacy continues through his beloved wife Janeria of Dothan; his daughter and son-in-law Tamika and Angelo Knox of Detroit; his granddaughter Niaja Knox of Detroit; and his great-grandson Javari'e "Peanut" Knox-Robinson. His nephew Jerome (Frances) Woodard, niece Joya Woodard, and a host of in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends also survive him.

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