James Blanchard "Jim" Woodard

James B. Woodard Sr., 76, of Gum Branch, Georgia, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on July 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on February 19, 1949, in Jacksonville, Florida, James was the beloved son of the late James L. Woodard and Hazel M. Woodard. To those who knew and loved him, he was affectionately known as “Big Papa,” “Big Jim,” “RazorBack,” or “Jimmy.”

In 1988, Jim founded Woodard and Son’s Appliances in Hinesville, Georgia, building a business grounded in integrity and hard work. He was an avid hunter and a devoted servant of God, faithfully serving as a Deacon at Gum Branch Baptist Church, where he and his family worshipped for many years.

Above all else, Jim’s greatest treasure was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 ½ years, lovingly known as “The Queen,” Pat Woodard, and his children: James Woodard Jr. (Tonya), Marc Woodard (Bridgett), Erica Abbgy (Dennis), Jacob Woodard.

He was the proud grandfather of eleven grandchildren: Vivian, Noah, Kalee, Rachel, Brandon, Megan, Paige, Gregory, Bradley, Jaxon, and Wyatt, and the cherished great-grandfather of fourteen great-grandchildren: Declan, Mia, Rhett, Dawson, Archer, Brooklyn, Thomas, Nora, Fletcher, Noah, Zoey, Harper, Claire, and Addie Kate.

Jim often said, “How blessed can one man be?” A man who came from humble beginnings, he leaves behind a legacy of respect, love, and admiration. His life was built on a foundation of faith, family, hard work, and determination—values he instilled in every one of his children and grandchildren.

The family would like to give special thanks to the staff of SouthCoast Medical Group Hinesville, including his dedicated physician, Firas Bannout, Staff of Georgia Hospice Care. Also, his favorite nurse Bridgett Woodard.

Jim Woodard’s legacy lives on in every life he touched. He was truly one of a kind—and deeply, dearly loved.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Gum Branch Baptist Church Building Fund, 8590 Hwy. 196 West, Hinesville, GA 31313.

Family will receive friends on Saturday July 5, 2025 at 1 P.M. at Gum Branch Baptist Church, 8590 GA-196, Hinesville, GA 31313.

Funeral Service will follow at 2 P.M. at Gum Branch Baptist Church with Rev. Gabe Gill officiating, 8590 GA-196, Hinesville, GA 31313.

Pallbearers: Marc Woodard, Jacob Woodard, Greg Abbgy, Bradley Abbgy, Noah Woodard, Brandon Woodard, Jaxon Woodard, Wyatt Woodard.

Honorary Pallbearers: Senior Men's Sunday School Class. 

Burial will immediately follow the service in the Woodard Family Cemetery.

Carter Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.