Jess William Woodard, 81, of Fortuna. passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 13, 2020. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, grandpa and great-grandpa.

Jess was born December 30, 1938 in Muse, Oklahoma. He married his loving beautiful wife Joyce on July 5, 1957. He always woke up every morning saying to his wife of 64 years “Good Morning Sunshine”.

Jess served in the military from 1958-1961 as a tank commander, stationed in Germany. He moved to Humboldt County in 1965, and retired from Pacific Lumber Company in 1993 after 32 years as a Gang Sawyer.

Jess loved spending time with his family and friends. He loved going to Ruth Lake, also camping, hunting, and fishing. He really enjoyed sports, mainly coaching kids (including his own kids) in football and baseball for over 20 years, baseball being his favorite.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce Woodard, brother Vaughon (Rita) Woodard, daughters Deena Bowen, Shelly (Norman) Tyler, Tayna (Kevin) McClode, sons Troy (Denise) Woodard, Cory (Shawnda) Woodard, 12 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren. 

He will be forever loved and missed! Never forgotten!

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