Richard Allen Woodard

“I can’t help but think about my dad and his relationship with his dad. He lost him at a young age and had to take over his church. Feeling how I’m feeling I can almost fathom what my dad was feeling 14 years younger than me. The thought that keeps me from breaking down is that my grandad is able to hug and kiss his son after so much time of being apart. I don’t want to be selfish. My dad was always there when I needed him…I feel like it’s raining and my umbrella is missing. Im drenched in tears, drenched in regret, drowning in puddles of memories when my dad picked me up from school because I was in trouble. My mind is clouded with thoughts of How he made sure I was settled in my dorm when I went off to college. How he bailed me out of trouble as an adult not knowing how to take care of myself. I had a real life superhero with amazing muscles, and a kind demeanor…he’s my Superman. I’m nowhere near his level as a person, even though he wasn’t perfect, he always saved the day. I love you dad and I appreciate you showing me that superheroes exist, they just don’t always wear capes. They have thick mustaches and carry bibles always preaching the gospel and praying for their family. My hero cleared a seven day work week in a single bound, just to make sure those he protected never went without. Honestly I’m glad he got to rest, when you work that hard you deserve it. God and my grandad have my pops now, but I woke up one morning…tears in my eyes, and I saw his face, I see his eyes, I see his nose, and I realized…he’s still here…and that’s my dad…he’s always there for my mom, my sister, and me.” Marcus Woodard My father was a great man of God. He was hard-working, full of integrity, and a wonderful provider. My earliest memories of him, were so sweet. He was always taking care of me. When I cried, he comforted me. Dad took such great care of everyone. He was the best encourager, prayer warrior and preacher. Daddy loved me so deeply. He was always so proud of me and told me every chance he got. I know what love is supposed to be like because of him. Out of everything I learned from watching his life, I learned to fall in love with Jesus. He instilled faith in us at an early age. He gathered us around the table to sing songs and read the Bible. He couldn’t go one place without telling someone about Jesus. I remember one Christmas season we passed a Salvation Army bell ringer and he said “Do you know the reason for the season?” I was slightly embarrassed at first but I’m now so proud to say he was unapologetic about his faith and wanted everyone to know Jesus. My Dad was firm but gentle, strong yet compassionate. He was faithful to his family and more importantly faithful to God. I’m glad I got to tell him how much of an impact he made in my life. I wouldn’t be the woman I am today without him. In so many ways I carry him in my own personhood, and its my mission to continue to make him proud for the rest of my life. My Dad left an incredible legacy of love and faith. I hope to leave that same impact on others. I am so thankful for the gift that he has been to me and our family. God truly blessed me with the best Dad in the world and for that I am forever grateful. I love you Daddy. Thank you, Shivon Woodard (Richard Woodard’s daughter) Evangelist Richard A. Woodard, 65, of Hot Springs passed away, Monday, November 1, 2021. He was born July 22, 1956 in Fort Sill, Oklahoma to the late Clarence & Patsy Johnson Woodard. He retired with Harps Grocery Store and was a member of First Pentecostal Church. He was predeceased by his parents; brother, Fred Woodard and sister Cindy Green. Survivors include his wife, Cynthia Woodard; son, Marcus Woodard; daughter, Shivon (Rashawn) Green; brother, Clarence Woodard Jr.; sisters, Barbara Bellamy, Linda Lincoln and Gretchen Eugene . Services will be held 10:00 A.M. Saturday, November 13, 2021 at First Pentecostal Church with Pastor Wilbert Bates officiating. Burial will be at Friendship Cemetery. Pallbearers are Ronnie Fincher, Rashawn Green, J.T. Leeper, Danny Martin, Gilbert Martin and Neriah Brown. Honorary Pallbearers are Emekeus Robinson and Jeremiah Bellamy. Visitation will be 6:00 – 7:00 PM Friday, November 12, 2021 at Hot Springs Funeral Home.

Richard Allen Woodard

July 22, 1956 - November 2, 2021