Born on June 27, 1937, in the quaint town of Dawson, Texas, Beth’s early life was steeped in the values of hard work and deep familial bonds. She often shared poignant memories of her youth, particularly of picking cotton alongside her father, who, with affectionate pride, would always place her bag at the very top, declaring her harvest the cleanest. These formative experiences, coupled with the joyful sounds of The Beatles accompanying her mother’s breakfast preparations during Beth’s own early motherhood, forged a spirit rich in compassion and firmly rooted in her heritage.
At the tender age of 16, a serendipitous introduction by her dear, lifelong friend, Barbara Sanders, brought Beth to the love of her life, Kenneth. Their bond was immediate, deep, and enduring, a commitment that not a single day could falter. To witness Beth and Kenneth together was to behold a partnership defined by profound devotion and an unmistakable aura of love. Though the journey to parenthood presented its own challenges, their prayers were beautifully answered with the arrival of their cherished daughter, Jeana, followed by the heartfelt adoption process that brought their beloved son, Jimmy, into their lives. Beth’s love for her children, her grandchildren, and indeed, her entire family, was the very cornerstone of her existence, a wellspring of endless affection.
Beth Woodall was truly a remarkable individual, guided by a heart that served as her unparalleled strength and a faith that illuminated her every path. She embodied the quintessential spirit of a helper, a giver, and a nurturer in every facet of her being. Her creative talents were vast and varied: from intricate sewing and insightful design to expressive painting, gourmet cooking, delectable baking, and the artistic decoration of cakes and platters. She approached each endeavor with meticulous care, an inherent passion, and a generous spirit that sought to bring joy to others.
Her dedication extended far beyond her home, enriching the very fabric of her community. Beth was an active and respected member of numerous organizations, reflecting her diverse interests and unwavering civic pride: the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Quilt Guild, the Bay Swingers Square Dance Club, the Republican National Committee, and the Texas Retired Teacher Association. She was also a proud founding member of The Second Baptist Church in Port Lavaca. Her vibrant volunteer spirit shone brightly at the senior citizens' center, where she brightened countless mornings with kolaches, and at First Baptist Church, where she meticulously planned enriching trips, lovingly prepared countless meals, and thoughtfully crafted goodie bags and games for the cherished "Jolly Elders."
Professionally, Beth dedicated herself to serving others with integrity and warmth. Her career in Port Lavaca included valued time at Grimes Pharmacy and the school credit union, culminating in an impactful 33-year tenure in the school office, where her kind demeanor and efficiency touched the lives of countless students, parents, and staff. Even after official retirement, her entrepreneurial spirit flourished with "Beth’s Shopping Basket." Through this beloved endeavor, she personally took orders for groceries and other necessities, delivering them with a compassionate heart to those in nursing homes. She also crafted exquisite, personalized baskets for all occasions and brought beauty to countless items through her masterful embroidery – a testament to her resourcefulness was the adage that if she couldn’t do it herself, she possessed the remarkable ability to figure out how to get it done for you.
Beth leaves behind a profoundly cherished legacy, carried forward by her beloved granddaughters, Robin Bethany and Laura Ruple, and her devoted son-in-law, Paul Bethany. Her radiant spirit will continue to shine brightly through her 8 great-grandchildren and her great-great-grandchild, Meki. She is also lovingly remembered by her sisters-in-law, Carolyn Taylor and Dot Woodall, along with a host of nieces and nephews who adored her.
She is now reunited with those who preceded her in death: her parents, Bill and Ida Mae Taylor; her brothers, JR and Doyce; her beloved son, Jimmy Woodall; her cherished daughter, Jeana; and her grandson, Kirt Bethany. Beth Woodall’s life was an extraordinary testament to unwavering love, remarkable perseverance, and an unending commitment to enriching the lives of everyone she encountered. She will be profoundly missed, but her loving memory will forever remain a guiding light in our hearts.
If you wish to send a floral tribute in memory of Mrs. Woodall, please contact The Greenhouse, 361-552-9758. First Baptist Church will be live streaming the funeral service on their facebook page and also on their youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIEQzOu0BEPqkzzB_IaU7SA
