Florence Virginia Woodward

June 19,1921 to October 3, 2024

Florence Virginia Woodward, a longtime resident of Sun City West Arizona, was called home to the Lord at the age of 103. She was born on June 19th, 1921 in Mason City Iowa, the youngest child of Abram DeVoe and Ellen Pearson. She was raised alongside her siblings Richard, Beth, and Jean. After graduating from Mason City High School Florence attended Mason City Junior College and then went on to Iowa State University and graduated in 1943 with a degree in Foods and Nutrition. The Alpha Gamma Delta sorority she joined was a proud accomplishment and she remained an active member for the duration of her life.

Florence became acquainted with Army Lt. Robert Woodward, also of Mason City. They fell in love and married in July of 1944. Bob was discharged from the service in December of 1944 and shortly thereafter they made their way to New York State. Florence took a job as a kitchen consultant at Rochester Gas and Electric and Bob went to work as a chemical engineer at Kodak. In due time they were joined by daughter Joanne, son John and later son Stephen. The couple then went on to build a house in a brand-new subdivision in the town of Irondequoit, and raised the family there. The town was the first in Monroe County to see more than a hundred percent population increase as the war ended and the baby boom began. Many vacation trips were taken over the years skiing, and visiting family in Iowa and Colorado. Flower gardening, sewing clothes and school volunteering and activities took up much of her time in addition to the children.

After the last child finished college, they decided to sell the house upon retirement in 1981 and look for a new residence. They settled on the Greater Phoenix area, and built a brand-new home in Sun City West, Arizona.

It was there in Sun City West that Bob and Florence enjoyed retirement, golfing, travelling and the lack of snow and cold. A coveted hole-in one was achieved by her in 1987. She became a congregant of Desert Garden United Church of Christ. Bob passed away in May of 2008 after almost 64 years of marriage. Florence remained in her home until age 96, when she went to live at Pegasus Assisted Living Facility.

In addition to her husband Bob, Florence was predeceased by her son in law Robert Bottorf in 2020 and her daughter Joanne Bottorf in 2023.

Florence is survived by her son Stephen (Penny) Woodward of Las Vegas NV and son John (Elaine) Woodward of Camas WA. She leaves one grandchild, Brad Woodward of Washington State. She also leaves numerous nieces and nephews.

The family is incredibly grateful for all the care that Florence received at Pegasus. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Desert Garden United Church, Sun City West, AZ.

The Sunland Mortuary is assisting the family with arrangements. Her remains will be interred alongside her husband in eternal rest at Sunland Memorial Park in Sun City, Arizona.

A graveside committal service will be held at Sunland Memorial Park on Wednesday, November 20th, 2024 at 11 am. The Desert Garden United Church is assisting the family with the service. All are welcome to attend and participate in the honoring of her memory.