Kirby Ray Woodard

Kirby was a machinist and, by all accounts, a true jack of all trades. He had a natural ability to figure things out, fix what was broken, and find a way to make things work. He was generous with his time and knowledge, always willing to lend a hand—and often just as willing to explain the “right” way to do something, whether anyone had asked for instructions or not.

He had a lifelong love of motorcycles and fast cars, and he brought that same energy and enthusiasm to life. Kirby was known for his quick grin, his sense of humor, his storytelling, and his unmistakable ability to keep things interesting. He was stubborn when he needed to be, mischievous when the opportunity presented itself, and never one to shy away from giving his opinion.

If there was something happening around him, Kirby was likely to be supervising it. Whether it involved grilling a steak, changing a tire, loading a trailer, or sweeping the floor, there was probably a better way to do it—and Kirby was more than happy to point it out. His advice, jokes, and stories became part of the moments his family and friends will remember most.

Kirby was never concerned with being polished or perfect. He was simply himself: independent, strong-willed, generous, warm-hearted, and occasionally a little troublesome. He had a way of turning ordinary moments into memorable ones, and his sense of humor could bring laughter even when circumstances were difficult.

Kirby is survived by his wife, Jennie V. Woodard; his mother, Christine Hill; his daughter, Stephanie Ray Bodiford and husband Danny; his son, Jeremy Tyson Woodard; grandchildren Elyse, Grayson, Corbin, Logan, Aaron, and Breanna; and siblings Dudley Woodard, Larry Woodard, Terry Woodard, and Richard Woodard.

He was preceded in death by his father, C.D. Woodard, and his brother, Michael A. Woodard.

Kirby leaves behind plenty of stories, laughter, and memories—and more than a few people who will still hear his voice reminding them there was a better way to do things.

And if the stories are true, he has likely already arrived wherever he is going, found something that needs fixing, and started explaining how everyone else is doing it wrong.

“Thanks for keeping us laughing, even when we probably shouldn't have been.”

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, August 23, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at VFW Post 9187, 6101 E. Mount Houston Rd., Houston, TX 77050.