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EDNA WOODARD Obituary

EDNA MAE “Cokey” PULLEN WOODARD, 66, retired Memphis City Schools teacher, passed away peacefully at home on May 12, 2013, Visitation, 5-7 p.m., Friday, May 17, and Service 11 a.m., Saturday, May 18 at Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church. Burial in New Park Memorial Gardens Cemetery. She leaves her husband, Don Woodard; two daughters, Alisha Ann Pullen-Jones, Bernita Pullen Henley; stepdaughter, Latasha Adair; stepson, Kerry Love, and four grandchildren, Davey Grimes, Jr., Darron Grimes, Karlan Johnson and Teranda Henley. E. H. Ford Mortuary (901)345-9558

Published by The Commercial Appeal from May 15 to May 23, 2013.
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Memories and Condolences
for EDNA WOODARD

Sponsored by Her Loving Daughters, Alisha and Bernita Pullen...Mom, You were the wind beneath our wings.....

Not sure what to say?





On May 31, 2023, Dad left his earthly body and came to be with you. It's been 10 years since you left us and this picture says it all. Back together again, Love Birds!! RIP Don J. Woodard.

Your Baby Girl, Nita

Family

June 7, 2023

As I sit here and type this, I can't hardly believe that you have been gone for 10 years. I remember how I could hardly breathe when you left me and I didn't have a clue how I would manage without you. I will say the journey has been tough, but each time I get low, I remember you saying to me "You will go on" and I adjust my queen and get back at it. Mom, your absence is STILL profound and without Alisha Ann makes it even harder. LOVE and MISS y'all very very much. I hope I'm making y'all proud!! Til we meet again, My Shero!!!

Bernita V Henley

Family

May 12, 2023

I come here all the time just to look at your beautiful face. I miss your spirit. I miss everything about you. I think of you daily. Man, life isn't fair sometimes but here I am still wishing you were here with me so I can tell you about all my wins and loses. Keep watching over me grandma. I love you.

Teranda

Grandchild

January 21, 2020

I love and miss you everyday grandma. Life will never be the same.

Teranda Henley

March 22, 2017

Wow. I am truly heartbroken. Ms. Woodard was my 6th grade teacher at Levi Elementary. I feel like she was one of those teachers who was hard on me becuse she knew success would follow me. She was always so outgoing and full of life. I wanted to be JUST like her. She enjoyed her students as if they were her own children. One day I begged her to stay with her while the rest of the class went to art class and I remeber her telling me "Giiiiiirl I see you driving one of those big body benz and living in a big house when you get out of school" and that has motivated me to stay in school all these years; and to think, I am now a senior in college and was searching for Ms. Woodard hoping I would find a facebook page for her to invite her to my graduation instead of a obituary . Ms. Woodard will truly be missed. One of the greatest educators and mentors there ever was. She kept it real.....Always. You will never be forgotten! I'll always remeber that warm smile and red lipstick

A Jefferson

September 20, 2016

It's been 3 years since I saw your loving face. We are doing good Mom. Keep watching over us. Love and Miss you dearly. Your Baby Girl

Bernita Henley

May 12, 2016

Well Mom, it's been 2 years since you left us to be with the Lord and I will say, we have our moments, but we are doing fine. The girls are handling their business and your grands -- well, Taylor has started Kindergarten and Kailyn and Kayden are growing up so fast. They are soo smart. You would be proud. Everyday you are with me and I hope I am making you proud of me. Love Always, Your Baby Girl!

Nita

September 4, 2015

First impressions are lasting impressions. Her smile and radiant personality were contagious! Her daughters exude the same love and magnetic personalities. I'll never forget her 60th birthday party. With love~ Recha Faulkner

Recha Faulkner

June 14, 2014

Ms. Edna Mae was a true original. You were going to get the straight story from her. Beautiful inside and out. A tough cookie but a sweet cookie. If you were blessed to be loved by her, you knew it and could take it to the bank. We love you, we miss you but we accept that you have gone ahead to receive the reward that you so richly deserve. Rest and smile that lovely smile forever....

Char Claxton

June 11, 2014

When I think about "Momma", a vibrant smile and a beautiful spirit comes to my mind--- loving, giving, lively, positive, and very wise. She is truly missed, but the good news is that we will see her again (one day). Love you (and the family). -Gwen

Gwendolyn Shields

June 8, 2014

I just found this memorial page. I was thinking about the people who influenced my life the most. Mrs. Woodard was one of them. I have been teaching for 18 years. The first two was in (1996 - 1998)Memphis. At LaRose Elementary. Being a new teacher and a man, she and Mrs. Elder took me under their wings and guided me. She was an awesome lady. Some of the most fondest memories of when she and I would cross the street everyday to sit on the retaining wall of the house across the street to talk and just get away for a few minutes. I am truly saddened by her passing. My condolences and sympathy go out to the family.

Robert Freshour

Robert Freshour

May 28, 2014

Good afternoon Woodard Family may prayers continue to go go up and God continue to be with you all. Mrs. Woodard my 4th grade teacher from Larose Elementary and favorite sweet customers from First Tennessee. I will miss your pretty smile Mrs. Woodard and I want to say thank you for all of you taught me and also going out your way bringing copies of pictures from my school days. Im happy that I was able to reunite with you after all of these years and before God took you to your new address. I know you will be looking down on all of us. With love Jessica

Jessica Lee

May 6, 2014

Good afternoon Woodard Family may prayers continue to go go up and God continue to be with you all. Mrs. Woodard my 4th grade teacher from Larose Elementary and favorite sweet customers from First Tennessee. I will miss your pretty smile Mrs. Woodard and I want to say thank you for all of you taught me and also going out your way bringing copies of pictures from my school days. Im happy that I was able to reunite with you after all of these years and before God took you to your new address. I know you will be looking down on all of us. See you soon. With love Jessica

Jessica Lee

May 6, 2014

April 10, 2014

I still think about you, Ms. Woodard. You are a large part of the reason I am still in education. Love you.

E Lewis

January 5, 2014

Dear Bernita and Family,
I will always fondly remember your beloved Edna Mae. Her warm smile and happy spirit truly lit up the room! What a kind, loving, and beautiful woman! I am deeply sorry for your loss, and you and your family are and will remain in my thoughts and prayers.

Sherrill French

September 11, 2013

We will always remember Sis Woodard for her beautiful smile and pleasant personality.
From the times we visited her, we also found out that she was also mischievious in a sweet way.
We still laugh at the times when her caregivers were trying to get her to call for help before getting up. In her most mischievious voice and with that beautiful smile would let everybody know that she had all intention of doing exactly what she wanted to do.

We love you Bernita and hope to see you soon.

Rev Henry and Lamona Jackson

July 6, 2013

Mrs. Woodard I will forever hold a special place in my heart for you and your family. You were like a Diamond that shine so bright in people lives. Like a diamond that has to go thru many stages before it reaches it's highest level of sparkle (perfection). You are like that diamond in many ways thru your test & trials you endured. I never heard you complain, you always gave God the Glory, no matter how severe your pains were. You would just flash that Million Dollar Smile, then began to ask how my family or how some of the church members were doing.

You taught me many valuable life lessons that I will cherish for the rest of my life.I remember the times when you were seemingly counted out of the race, the Lord would allow you to bounce back again,and again and again.You showed me that you recognized where your help came from as you rededicated your life back to our Lord Savior Jesus Christ. I can see you in Heaven with the Master Jeweler. That's where everything shines so bright like a Diamond.

Love You!

Little Jackie

June 19, 2013

My sister,
I can remember as a little girl mom would bring me and angel to see you at Liberty supermarket where u worked and with the most beautiful smile u would say here comes my little fat baby sister and u would contribute to my weight by givimg me candy.Bud, Angel and I lost contact with you when i was about 12yrs old but we knew that u stayed in contact with daddy via phone calls periodically. When you showed up at daddy's wake in 2005 i knew i had u in my life again and i wasnt going to ever let go! We might not have talked on phone but once or twice a month but we knew we had nothing but love for each other. When i came to Memphis, i would call or come by. that is , when u wasn't headed out the door to the casino! lol..3 weeks before you passed, u asked me to keep an eye on Nita and Ann and to build a bond with my nieces. I gave you my word and i plan on keeping it. I will miss your strong voice but i know that i will hear it again one day..

Rubye Cole

June 19, 2013

I will always remember your smile and your no nonsense attitude. I also remember you being the first person I met whose dogs had a whole room to themselves. I'm sad for your girls cause I know they are having a hard time, but I'm glad for you.... No more sickness & pain. Nothing but JOY!

Missy

June 14, 2013

Oh how I love and miss you Edna Mae Woodard! You fought a good fight with a smile on your face. I will always remember you telling me that you were glad that Nita and I were sisters...that made me feel so Special! I'm still carrying that Big Green suitcase that you gave me for Christmas 2011. You said you wanted me to have something to remember you by, and so it is. RIP my dear, you will never be forgotten. I will always love you!

Jo Nita Ross

June 12, 2013

June 12, 2013

June 12, 2013

June 12, 2013

Bernita Henley

June 12, 2013

Bernita Henley

June 12, 2013

Bernita Henley

June 12, 2013

Bernita Henley

June 12, 2013

Not only have I lost an in-law, but a friend and a sister as well. I will always cherish the times we spent together, but most of all I will remember the phenomenal smile I would never forget. You would always speak highly of my son and I would do the same towards Bernita. I will always be here for my daughter in law and grand children . I love you and rest in peace.

Janie Henley

June 12, 2013

We were riding in a cab and she put a rubber snake on my shoulder. We almost had a wreck. She thought it was so funny.

Delores Watson

June 12, 2013

Thanks everyone for your thoughts prayers and stories....it warms my heart. Please remember to put your name on your entry so that we may know who you are. Thanks a bunches, Ann & Nita

Nita and Ann

June 12, 2013

Your mom was a giant among people. Sweet kind, giving,just an all around great person. She was the type of friend that you didn't have to talk to on a daily basic to know she was a friend. Another beautiful flower added to Gods's flower garden. Love you Ann and Nita.

Mattie Witherspoon Jackson Tenn.

June 12, 2013

Oh the good old days. Coky and I went fishing with your dad. We ran out of bait and they had to go get some more. She and I had a little bait left on the hook, so we were sort of playing in the water and caught a very large buffulo that we both was afraid of, so we just drug it out of the water, over a big log and let it flop around until the men got back. It was so funny. She was such a lovely lady, and if she was your friend. you had a friend for life. Gone but never forgotten

June 12, 2013

My prayers are with you Ann and Nita. My best memory at this time is the first time I went with Nita to spend the night and I was so afraid of the BIG dogs. so to calm me down we went in the kitchen for greens and cornbread you me and Ms. Cokie I love you guys and I know that she is in Heaven with my Dad and watching over us be blessed my sisiters

June 12, 2013

I'm glad I had the chance to meet this remarkable woman who always kept the faith and never gave up. I see the appple doesn't fall far from the tree,mom did a great job raising you sis and passed her lovely ways over to you and your siblings.She will always be with you and love you dearly, I love you all.

Terry Williams

June 12, 2013

Bernita Henley

June 11, 2013

Oh my goodness, where do I start? The only name that I knew is Cokee. Everytime I seen her, I ran to her open arms while she squatted to hug me and then pick me up to kiss all over my molly face. I always would just stare at her because i thought she was sooo beautiful, like a movie star.

June 11, 2013

What greater love is there than our Heavenly Father and the love of a mother. So know that your mother will be missed on earth but she is in heaven where love will never end but suffering is over. May you be encourage by the love you all shared with her and each other!!!

Cathy Haynes Beck

June 11, 2013

Coketta, I've always called her that. Wow will I miss her! Everyone loved to see her smile. I loved her smile too and also not being able to hear her laugh will be such an absent to my ears. I loved her probably more than she knew. I would ask Nita "All the Time" about my Cooketta. I love Nita so much. we go back a long way with lots of fun and laughter included. It was like we were "Rich" everyday, High off life! I will truely miss "My Coketta". Much Love Pam Henley Fisher.

June 11, 2013

I will always remember your beautiful face and smile. The first time that I met you and Lewis was at my mother's funeral. I wondered who was that beautiful attractive young woman and was told that you were my first cousin. I wish that I had gotten to know you better. Time is so fleeting that you always put off what you should have done and I was no exception with you. I will always remember your beautiful face and smile and will be forever touched to have had you as a close relative. Rest in peace Cokey.

Bruce & Elizabeth Theus

June 11, 2013

I will always have pleasant thoughts of my cousin Cokey and will miss not viewing your beautiful face. I will always regret not spending more time getting to know you better. Time is so
fleeting and I thought that you would be here forever. I remember the first time that I saw you and Lewis at my mothers funeral and I wondered who was that beautiful woman . Only to be told that you were my first cousin . You touched my life in a wonderful way. Rest in peace Cokey.

June 11, 2013

Mrs Cokey as we knew her, was an aunt to us. Her and mom (Spoon) were forces to be reckoned with when it came to a bowling ball or partys in the home. They made sure we all felt loved, special and important. Even before the movie the Help came out, she was the one with the words of encouragement for us all. Always know for the beautiful smile and never a harsh word did I ever hear her say. So today, I speak directly to her as she sits in her new mansion on the other side:
Faithful
F- For always being kind to me and loving me. Never judging but believing in me when I didn't believe in myself.
A – Always giving of yourself and to my mother. Dear , true and honest friendship. Our home was a better place because you were her friend.
I – Intelligent in the manner to which you would give and impart wisdom and knowledge. There greatest one being to love and keep a smile on your face even through the end.
T- Tough on us when you needed to be but it was all still done in love and kindness
H- Hugs came for free. They were the entry way to your bosom and a safe place to cry and know my stories would go no further.
F- Friend to my mother for many years. So much so to the point that I didn't realize you were not my real aunt until I was older and now for me I still don't believe it. Forever connected
U- Unconditionally loving. When I messed up you didn't treat us any different than if we had accomplished something to make you proud. This made me want to do and be better.
L- Loving as Christ loved us all. This will assist in carrying me through the rest of my life.

My heart aches as I miss you. In adulthood we often drift away into our own worlds, I regretfully hate that I drifted too far away from you. I am forever and eternally grateful for God allowing Ann and Bernita to share you with me. We are forever their sisters and they will never be alone. Love you Auntie. Miss you more. Denise (Witherspoon) Patterson

June 11, 2013

To the lady that pulled me out into the middle of the living room floor to dance...cause she said thats what I was gonna do!!! Always loved hearing "Momma" quotes from Bernita. She was a joy for the short time I knew her. Thoughts are always with you Nita and Ann.

Chris Sowell

June 10, 2013

I just heard about your loss. My deepest sympathies to you and your family. From a 1972 Lane graduate.

Forestine Cook-Cole

June 6, 2013

Cokey,The joy I feel for you is one of happiness in my soul to know that you're with our Father in Heaven! My condolences and sympathies go out to the family. Don, brother man, stay in the faith.Cokey goodness and smiles will be every much miss. At least we have the time to get to know her, so now she at peace, no pain, just rest. So rest my sister "YOU HAVE EARN IT."

Albert / Alfred Burt

May 26, 2013

Prayers to your family. Cokey will be missed.

Wanda Triggs -Mercer

May 25, 2013

Mom, I just can't wrap my head around it, but I KNOW it's true....my Angel has gone on to a better place. I'm gonna MISS YOU LIKE CRAZY, but I can't be selfish anymore. He blessed me with 45 years of your presence and that's more than most, so UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN....Love ALWAYS Your Baby Girl, Nita!

Bernita Henley

May 22, 2013

RIP Aunt Edna. You'll be missed

Danny Marshall

May 21, 2013

LOVE U ALL 2 LIFE!!! As Mrs Cokey walks around HEAVEN all day!!!! We are always here 4U!!! (The Brady Nation)

Ulyesse Brady

May 20, 2013

My heart-felt condolences to Alisha and Bernita Pullen & Woodard Family for the loss of their mother and my friend. Edna Mae...I love you all.

May 19, 2013

Hello Momma, to say goodbye is to say that I won't see you again...but I know that I will; so this is not goodbye; but see you soon. I Love You, but GOD loved you BEST!!!

May 19, 2013

ANN & NITA, PRAYING THAT YOU FIND COMFORT IN KNOWING THAT YOUR BEAUTIFUL IS RESTING IN A BETTER PLACE. I LOVE YOU BOTH AND THINKING OF YOU.

Jerry & Lisa Taylor

May 19, 2013

My prayer is for the Woodard family for comfort and peace in there time of need.

A. Burt

May 18, 2013

Edna Mae Woodard, who I known since Broad St. all so many year ago. Since then she was my friend, my conscious, my family, but most of all she was there. You know some people make a bucket lists and The Eight Wonders of the World is on that list, but if I pass away today,at lease I will have seen the Ninth Wonder of the World. That Wonder of the World is Cokey, A Wonderful Person. She is love, she will be missed. My pray go out to Don and the family. MOST LOVE

ALBERT B.

May 18, 2013

Bernita and Alisha, peace be with you and may God comfort you during this very difficult time.

Jackie Lacey-Hayes

May 18, 2013

I was loved and accepted by Mrs. Edna 30 years ago. She showed me guidance and grace. She treated me as one of her own. When I was not at home I was at her house. What a blessing to have as much love at your friend's house as you do at home. Plus I got two sisters. I love you so much Mrs. Edna. Rest well and if the Lord's willing... I will see ya soon Ma.

Amy Stotts-Parker

May 16, 2013

Nita & Ann, my heart is with you and the family. Cherrish the memories always.

May 16, 2013

I worked with Mrs. Woodard at Lovely Levi Elementary School. She was a great teacher and friend. I have many fond memories of Mrs. Woodard. To the family, I'm praying your strength in the Lord.

Sincerely,

Ms. P. Smith

Phyneria Smith

May 16, 2013

With deepest sympathy in the loss of your loved one. She use to be a member of the New Greater Bethel AME Church. Extended Prayers to the family!

Marie Herron-Andrews

May 15, 2013

Granny you were my EVERYTHING!!!! I won't say I don't know what I'm gone do without you because you raised STRONG WOMEN. Just know I'll ALWAYS LOVE YOU GRANNY!!!! Gone but not forgotten, till we meet again LOVE YOU BOSS WITH THE RED HOT SAUCE!!!!!!

Karian Johnson

May 15, 2013

We have your family in our prayers. We are here for you!!

Lena Muhammad

May 15, 2013

Bernita I'm praying for you and your family I've been there God will see you through. Love you my sister.

Christopher Dandridge

May 15, 2013

Very sorry to hear about the passing of your mom.

All praise to the God and Father of our Master, Jesus the Messiah! Father of all mercy! God of all healing counsel! He comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, he brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us. We have plenty of hard times that come from following the Messiah, but no more so than the good times of his healing comfort—we get a full measure of that, too.

Priscilla Turner

May 15, 2013

Rip Cokey...I remember u from my childhood days with my mother, Barbara Graham Comer. You were always smiling & such a pretty lady.

Sabrina Comer-Clark

May 15, 2013

ANN N BERNITA, PRAYING 4 STRENGTH N PEACE, 4EVER N MY HEART N ON MY MIND, GOD WILL C U THROUGH!! LUV U BOTH 4 LIFE!! R.I.P. MRS.COKEY!!!!

Kimberley Holt

May 15, 2013

The Lord has blessed us with Mrs. Woodard for 66 years of love, friendship and witness for our Lord and Savior. Her light will continue to shine in our hearts forever. Her life has been a testimony that will strengthen us all to "Keep Our Heart and Minds Stayed on Christ Jesus. Continuing to lift the family in pray.

Teressa Bruce

May 15, 2013

May GOD keep you and give your family peace and strength to endure

Rev. D.V Marshall

May 15, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Constance & Joe Parker

May 15, 2013

Mrs. Woodard you were always so much fun to be with and talk to! A wonderful educator producing great students. I always enjoyed having your students in the computer lab.

Joyce Foster

May 14, 2013

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