We are sad to announce the passing of our father, Melvin Lee Woodard of Greenwood, MS. He passed away at the age of 91 on Tuesday, October 18, 2022. He was surrounded by his loving family after a battle with a recent stroke. There will be a graveside service held on Friday, October 21 at 2 p.m. at Black Hawk Methodist Cemetery in Black Hawk, MS, with Dr. Jim Phillips officiating.

He was born on August 23, 1931 to Henry Grady Woodard and Sally Oma Woodard of Black Hawk, MS. He attended Black Hawk High School where he graduated and met his wife to be, Robbie Woodard. After graduating high school he and Robbie were married and Lee joined the U.S. Army where he served in active duty in the Korean War. When he returned home from Korea, he became involved in law enforcement where he spent over sixty years of his life.

He always enjoyed spending time with his family and close friends. He attended the Methodist Church as well as the Baptist Church. He was well loved by his family and many friends. He will be missed dearly.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, his wife, Robbie Leigh Woodard, great grandson, John Russell King, and all of his siblings.

He leaves behind a son, Sid Woodard (Patricia), two daughters, Darlene Ware (Doyle) and Irene Bennett (Ricky). He is also survived by six grandchildren, Jennifer Alderman (Casey), Sidney Woodard, Larken Ware (Lindsay), Leigh King (Matt), Brandi Campbell (Byron) and Dawn Mitchell (Terry), eleven great grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Casey Alderman, Colby Alderman, Danny Leigh, Kevin Leigh, Jimmy Woodard, Michael Woodard and Jerry Woodard.

Military rites will be conducted by Keesler-Hamrick-Gillespie American Legion Post 29.  Special thanks to Indywood Nursing & Rehab, Kare-In-Hospice, and Georgia Swinney. Memorials may be given to the Black Hawk Methodist Cemetery Association or the Alzheimer's Association.

Williams & Lord Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.