Gerald Edward Woodward

On Wednesday, November 26, 2025, Gerald Edward Woodward, 94, passed peacefully into his eternal heavenly home after several months of declining health. Gerald was a devoted husband of 64 years to the late Vergie Ruth Haines Woodward, a committed father, a loving grandfather and great-grandfather, a proud Marine, a loyal friend, and a lifelong Christ-follower and patriot.

Early Life and Military Service:Born on September 17, 1931, in Tulsa, OK, Gerald was the second of three sons born to Zelmer David and Claire Bennett Woodward. His formative years were spent in Tulsa, Washington, D.C., and San Antonio. At age 17, he joined the Marine Corps, serving on Adak in the remote Aleutian Islands and later at Camp Lejeune, NC. The training and discipline he received as a Marine stayed with him his entire life; he often spoke fondly of the lessons learned during those years.

Education and Career: Gerald graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Physical Education, Health, and Recreation. He began his career as a youth center director in Andrews, TX, which is where his greatest adventure began. After meeting Vergie at a National Recreation Conference in Long Beach, CA, and sharing only three dates, the couple married on Christmas Day 1957.

As their family grew to include three children, Gerald transitioned into a lifelong career in financial services. He initially served as a life insurance salesman for American military personnel in Wurzburg, Germany, where the family spent eight adventurous years traveling throughout Europe. Upon returning to the States, they settled in Tempe, AZ, where Gerald served as a Certified Financial Planner for over 40 years.

Community and Passions: Gerald and Vergie were long-time, avid volunteers with the Tempe Sister City Organization. Gerald’s leadership included serving on the Board of Directors, chairing the high school exchange selection committee, and coordinating the Sister Cities Gardens in Kiwanis Park. He was ultimately inducted into the Ring of Honor for his deep commitment to the organization.

An enthusiast of life, Gerald loved sports—especially tennis, table tennis, and golf. He stayed fit through walking, yoga, and Pilates, and was known for his love of whistling, classical music, and sharing a good story.

A Patriot’s Legacy: Gerald held an inexhaustible love for his family, his faith, and his country. His daily morning ritual remained unchanged throughout his life: putting out the flag and praying for his loved ones and his nation while listening to the National Anthem. He was deeply proud of his service, having played Reveille and Taps while stationed on Adak and performing Taps for fallen Marines at Camp Lejeune. Semper Fi, Marine.

Family: Gerald was preceded in death by his parents and his two brothers, David and Rodney.

He is survived by his three children: Carolyn K. Chittenden (Dale), Sheri W. Bloom (David), and James Woodward. He also leaves behind five grandchildren: Sara Bloom Taylor (Cameron), Caleb Johnson (Dina), Ruthie Kornblatt (Matthew), Tim Johnson, and Peter Johnson; and six great-grandchildren: Ena, Sixten, Soren, Kiran, Teia, and Oliver.

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