M. W. "Bob" Woodard

Macon “Bob” Woodard passed away peacefully at his home in Raleigh on Thursday March 10, 2011. Bob was 107 years old and enjoyed a remarkable life. His positive demeanor, great generosity, and community service were a shining example to everyone he touched during his exceptional life. Bob is survived by his two daughters, Dianne Bostrom and Joyce Byrd of Cary NC; grandchildren King Bostrom and Tommy Byrd; great grandchildren K.O. Bostrom, Caitlin Byrd, Parker Byrd and Andrew Cummins. His wife Mary Ford Woodard preceded his passing in 1978.

Bob was a lifetime resident of Wake County and has seen much during his 107 year lifetime. The Wright brothers made their first flight during the year Bob was born and President Theodore Roosevelt was in office. One of his first cars was a 1924 Model T Ford.

At the young age of 15, Bob was operating the family’s farm until the late 1920’s when he entered the service station business. He successfully owned and operated a Gulf Service Station on the corner of South and Saunders Street in Raleigh for 40 years. After retiring he entered into real estate investing, which he enjoyed very much.

Bob’s life was always very active. He was an avid baseball fan. His contribution to local baseball through volunteering and financial support has been unmatched. He was a dedicated supporter of the West Raleigh Exchange Club, which he helped found in 1946, holding almost every office and faithfully serving the community. One of his greatest passions was establishing and supporting the Exchange Club’s Little League baseball program. Up until recent years he would throw out the first little league pitch at Woodard field opening the season. He was a long time Mason, joining in 1936, and achieved the 18th degree through the Scottish Rite Way. Socially, Bob kept a daily dinner date with his very dear friend Nita Barbour of Raleigh, NC. Nita and Bob have shared many great experiences over the past 20+ years.

His positive attitude, jovial laughter and dedication to family, friends, church and the community will be greatly missed. His active life and selfless contribution to helping all around him are attributes that we all should strive to achieve.

The family will receive friends on Sunday at Brown-Wynne Funeral Home in Cary between 5 and 7 PM. Funeral ceremonies will be held Monday 2:00 PM at Westover Methodist Church in Raleigh, 300 Powell Drive, Raleigh. Burial services will immediately follow at the Mausoleum at Oakwood Cemetery in Raleigh.

In lieu of flowers, Memorials can be made to the Masonic Home for Children at Oxford located at 600 College Street, Oxford, North Carolina 27565.

Condolences and fond memories may be offered at www.brownwynnecary.com