Robert Edward Woodard

He was born June 21, 1951, in Portland, Oregon to the late Captain Edward Alexander Woodard, Jr. and the late La Mercedes Hutchins Woodard, (Tanzler). He was also preceded in death by his step-father, former mayor of Jacksonville, Hans G. Tanzler, Jr., nephew, William Harrison Brown, all grandparents aunts and uncles.

As a young man, Robert worked at Jacksonville Port Authority (now known as JAX PORT). He began as a laborer and grew within the ranks to Superintendent of Wharf Maintenance and Repairs. After attending the University of Florida, he built custom motorcycles for several years and later moved on to work for The Lee Company as a Door and Openings inspector.

At the age of 28 years old, a snow skiing accident in Colorado, changed Robert’s life to one of a paraplegic. He was told he had ten years to live, and would never walk again. With much prayer, therapy, reflexology, and true grit, he walked with the use of a cane.

In 1981, Robert Woodard started a new life and business in marine construction on the St. Johns River in Duval and Clay County. He was the founder, president and later, former owner of B&W Marine Construction until retiring in 2016. Robert was also an avid hunter, fisherman, and rode four-wheeler trails in Florida, West Virginia and Utah.

He is survived by his sister, Carol Woodard Brown, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, brother Edward Alexander Woodard Conley, (Anne), Marietta, GA, sister, Tracy Woodard Weaver, Sarasota, Florida, and many nephews, nieces and cousins.

His family is grateful to his wonderful private caregivers, James Anderson, Sharon Manning, Debra Hatcher and Lyza DeJesus during the time Robert was living at home. While at the Riverwood Center, his sister, Carol, would like to thank all of the nursing staff on Beachwalk III, Haven Hospice and Hardage Giddens Beaches Funeral Home for their care and kindness.

Robert’s final wishes were to have his ashes spread across the St. Johns River, where he spent more than fifty plus years of his life. His wish was fulfilled on Palm Sunday, April 13, 2025.