I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I
have kept the faith, Henceforth there is laid up for me
the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the
righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not
only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.
2 Timothy 4:7-8

EARNEST WOODARD, a native of Ruleville, MS, lived his last days in Byram, MS at Edgewood nursing facility. He was born February 13, 1943, to the late Mr. Curtis and Laura Woodard. He confessed Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age. He later rededicated his life back to Christ and became a member of William Chapel Missionary Baptist Church of Ruleville, MS, under the leadership of Rev. Louis Keaton, where he also served as a deacon until his failing health.

On October 7, 2025, he was called home to be with the Lord. Preceded him in death, a son Earnest Woodard Jr., a daughter Melissa Young, two sisters: Willie Mae Brock, and Herdestine Rogers, brothers: Curtis Woodard, Nathaniel Woodard, Jim Woodard, and David Woodard.

He leaves to cherish memories of his wife Irene (Miami, FL), daughters: Monica (Lonnie) Jackson of Brandon, MS, Yvonne Lewis (Miami, FL), stepsons Monzean Thomas (St. Louis, MO) and Myron Thomas (Ruleville, MS), sisters: Diane Woodard (Ruleville, MS), Hattie Dennies and Dorothy Powell both of (Memphis, TN), Shirley Woodard (Miami, FL), brothers: Johnny Woodard (Deborah), Robert Woodard, Leroy Woodard all of Miami, FL. and Freddie (Lula) Starnes of Ruleville, MS. He leaves a host of niece and nephews, but a very special place for his grandchildren.