Claudia Woodard

Claudia Woodard, 98, of Redding, CA, formerly of Robinson, IL, passed away on February 21, 2022, in the comfort of her home.

She was born March 23, 1923, in Robinson, IL, the daughter of Ralph & Goldia (Crozier) Maxwell, both of whom preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Victor Woodard; her daughter, Cathy Woodard; and her grandson, Charles Prather.

She is survived by her daughter, Lee Ann Sackett; her grandson, Shawn Carlson; her granddaughter, Heather Evans; and her great-grandson, Kevin Evans.

Claudia grew up in the Robinson area. While her husband, Victor, served in the U.S. Navy, Claudia made it a point to support all efforts from the homefront during WWII. She would work for several companies over the course of her career, including Coast to Coast Hardware, Montgomery Wards, and Anderson High School, where she was a staple in the cafeteria for 14 years.

Away from work, Claudia spent quite a bit of time outside. Years ago, she enjoyed the thrill of riding her Harley Davidson motorcycle and cherished the feeling of freedom it provided her. Her love of the outdoors met her love of community with her involvement with her local 4-H. Anyone fortunate to know her in this way could attest to the fact that there was hardly anything she couldn't do! Whether it was chopping firewood, fixing the car, caring for the neighborhood kids, or cooking for an army, she was always willing and able to help others. Her cooking, in particular, always felt like love and home.

Time at home often found her following her favorite sports teams, namely the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Bears. While watching basketball (especially Larry Bird's Boston Celtics), it wasn't uncommon to find Claudia instructing the players on her TV as to what they needed to do on the court to win the game! She was also known for her love of crafts. She enjoyed sewing, quilting, and latch work and could make just about anything she set her mind to.

Claudia Woodard will be remembered as an AMAZING woman whose love for everyone will continue to live on in our memories and in our hearts.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date at the Robinson New Cemetery. The Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson is in charge of arrangements.