Evan Ragland "Woody" Harwood

Harwood, Evan Ragland September 6, 1945 – June 21, 2025
Evan Ragland Harwood of Memphis, passed away on June 21, 2025, at the age of 79 years. Those of us closest to her knew her better as 'Woody'. Woody was a remarkable woman whose life touched countless hearts and left a legacy of unconditional love.
Woody will be dearly missed by her niece, Deedi Hailey; nephews, Rich Hailey and George Hailey Jr.; cousins, Bayard Boyle, Betty Boyle, Snow Morgan, Kate Gooch and Richmond Gill, as well as numerous other relatives and friends.
Woody was predeceased by parents, Richard D. Harwood and Fairfax C. Harwood, and sister, Cary H. Harwood.
Woody's family wishes to extend a special thank you to Carrie McCall, Jolinda Buckhannon, and Thea Horne for the exemplary love, care, and compassion you showed her. You were more than her caregivers; you became her family and brought her great joy in the last years of her life.
Woody's journey began in Memphis, TN, where she grew up surrounded by family and friends who nurtured her boundless curiosity and compassion. From an early age, it was evident that Woody possessed a unique ability to connect with people, inspiring them with her courage, independence, wisdom, dry wit, and unwavering positivity despite being diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy at birth. Woody did not let this define her; instead, she challenged and overcame every barrier to living a full and meaningful life.
Woody graduated from Saint Agnes Academy and went on to attend Siena College of Memphis. She was a lifelong learner and an avid reader, exploring every literary genre including religion, politics, and philosophy, just to name a few.
Woody loved unconditionally and without judgement; she never hesitated to help anyone in need and supported multiple charitable organization during her life. She was a devoted daughter, sister, aunt, cousin and friend to many. Woody's laughter was infectious, her empathy boundless, and her guidance impacted us all. Her unwavering faith and trust in God guided her throughout her life. Micah 6:8 describes her beautifully, "And what does the Lord require of you but to do justice and to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God?" Woody enriched countless lives through her generosity and kindness. She was always ready to lend a helping hand or offer a listening ear. As we bid farewell to Woody, we are reminded of the profound impact one person can have on the world. Woody's spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched, and her memory will forever be cherished.
Rest in peace, Woody; you will be dearly missed and forever remembered.
A celebration of Woody's life will be held on July 3, 2025, at Canale Funeral Directors. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM with a brief service following at 11:00AM. She will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery Memphis, TN.
Memorial Donations may be made in Woody's name to Harwood Center, 4075 Park Ave, Memphis TN 38152.