Tommy Jean Woodward

Tommy Jean Woodward, born on May 13, 1944, in Calhoun, Mississippi, peacefully departed this world on August 24, 2026, surrounded by the family he cherished so deeply. His journey was one marked by love, selflessness, and a steadfast dedication to those he held dear. Born to Sine, Sr. and Dellie Floyd Woodard, Tommy Jean was the youngest of twelve children. He was predeceased by his grandparents, Joe and Fronia Woodard, his three sisters—Lillie Louise Edmond, Mildred Woodard Harris, and Izora Woodard Bailey—and eight brothers: Tilden, Sine Jr., Howard, W.C., David, Hallie Edward, Elijah, and John Ivory Sr. Woodard. Tommy Jean leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion through his surviving family: sons Thomas Woodward of Buffalo, NY, and Desmond Thompson of Erie, PA; daughters Beatric Lewis-Officer of Brooklyn Park, MN, and Racene Thompson of Erie, PA. He was a proud grandfather to Jourdon Woodward, Micheal Officer Jr., Desmond Thompson, and Jordan, as well as to granddaughters Shawna Thompson, Alera Officer, Dezelle Thompson, Davonya Thompson, and Desiah Thompson. His joy was further multiplied by his great-grandchildren Kameron, Ivy, Kyomi, and Kyeir. Tommy Jean's work life was as varied and vibrant as his character. He drove buses for the Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority and was a skilled mechanic who could breathe life back into any engine. His hands were never idle, constantly engaged in cleaning, repairing, and maintaining properties. However, his greatest calling came in his role as a Personal Care Attendant for his grandchildren, Alera and Michael Jr. (MJ), where his boundless love and patience shone through each day. Tommy Jean was never far from water, finding solace and joy in fishing wherever he went. Yet, his greatest passion was being present for others. His commitment to family and friends was unwavering, as he demonstrated time and again, even when it meant attending a beloved friend's Celebration of Life while wheelchair-bound. Known for his candid wit and kind heart, Tommy Jean had a knack for making others feel beautiful and turning a bad day around. He embraced friends as family and was ever-ready with a meal shared among loved ones. His selflessness was a constant, evident in his daily acts of kindness—offering rides in the rain or helping the elderly, always putting others before himself. His daughter Beatric shares a heartfelt tribute, capturing the essence of their bond: "What Mom prepared, Dad, you completed. I was blessed to spend the last 20 years with you being such a big part of my life. Truly blessed. You always showed up for me without me ever having to ask." Through trials and triumphs, Tommy Jean was a pillar of strength and love for his family. His unwavering presence and support were a source of comfort and inspiration. Beatric's words reflect the gratitude and love that his children and grandchildren carry for him: "Dad, I’m grateful for every mile you drove, every burden you lifted, every moment you stood in the gap for me. Thank you for loving me with action, not just words. I am who I am because you showed up — again and again." Tommy Jean's legacy of love and kindness will forever be remembered by those who were fortunate enough to know him. As a family, they request that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a charity of your choice in his honor. May his memory be a blessing and his spirit live on in the hearts of his loved ones.