Barbara Lorraine Woodward

Barbara Lorraine (Woelfle) Woodward, a proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran, loving mother, and devoted grandmother, passed away on January 24, 2025. Born in 1945 into a Navy family, Barbara traveled the world at a young age. While living in Kwajalein, where her father was stationed, she witnessed the distant mushroom clouds of atomic bomb tests at Bikini Atoll from her schoolhouse. Barbara was an active duty Marine where she met Joseph Woodward, the father of her children, and at a time when pregnancy required a Woman Marine to leave service. Yes, our mother wore combat boots – and she wore them with pride! As a mother she stayed home and cared for her children with love and understanding. She always encouraged her children to find their own passions and honored their various personalities. Her life, love, and talents touched many lives in many places.

Barbara’s love, humor, and wisdom extended beyond her own children. Her home was always open, offering warmth, guidance, and a meal to any friend who needed it. She was the mom you went to on a snow day, the Band Booster Mom, the Soccer Mom, the Taxi Mom. She chaperoned dances—and danced right alongside us. As a Staff Wife, she touched the lives of many military families with her kindness and support. Barbara bowled local leagues and coached youth leagues. An avid reader and talented crafter, Barbara loved sharing her passions for books, cross-stitch, crochet, knitting, and quilting with anyone willing to learn—or simply sat still long enough.

Barbara is survived by her five heartbroken children: Tracey (Dale), Joanne (Vince), Joseph (Erika), Diane (Jason), and Jacob (Sandi); grandchildren Joseph (Shannon), Simon (Josef), Joshua, Aspen, and Kaleb; siblings Sharon, David, John, Paula, and Catherine. She was predeceased by her parents, Donald and Lorraine Woelfle; her sisters Terese, Maureen, and Mary; and her ex-husband, the father of her children, Command Sergeant Major Joseph Woodward.

A memorial celebration will be determined at a later date. Until then, remember her, love her, and keep her in your prayers. Her love, laughter, and strength will live on in all who knew her.