Joan M. Woodward

Joan M. Woodward, of Medina, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on January 28, 2024, following a long illness. 

She was born on August 7, 1936, in Somerset. Joan was the daughter of the late Otto and Hazel (Allen) Heideman. Growing up in the Barker area, she married Francis Woodward in November of 1953. They settled in Lyndonville and raised a family of seven children. While raising her children, Joan also worked for H. H. Dobbins, Inc. for many years. She loved reading, embroidery, crafts, family events and working in her flower gardens.

Our mom was a miracle worker. With little resources, she always managed to put clean clothes on us all, while taking a few cans of food and making it seem like a feast. She squeezed her budget so that she could buy us those things we just “had to have”. She was our nurse, teacher, counselor, cook, maid and friend, and still greeted the world with a smile. Others may have had more money than we did, but no one had a better mother. Joan was a great example to her children and grandchildren, sharing important life lessons until her last days. She loved her husband well and taught us to “be good to all people and always do the best you can.”  Joan was proud of her family, who brought her so much joy. Her best days were when they were all together with her as a family. Her family, friends and neighbors will miss her dearly.

Joan was predeceased by her husband, Francis; grandson, Timmy Woodward, Craig Woodward and Kahutah Fletcher; brothers, Don, Chuck, Al, Ross, Jerry and Raymond Heideman; and sisters, Norma Newman and Joyce Houseman. 

She is survived by her loving children, Danny (Bev) Woodward of Lyndonville, Diane (Howard) Boyce of Lyndonville, Darlene (Bob) Waters of Medina, Francis (Bev) Woodward, Jr. of Medina, Connie (Lee) Fletcher of Medina, Donald (Paula) Woodward of Medina and Michael Woodward of Medina. Joan leaves behind eighteen grandchildren; thirty nine great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Linda Hall; many nieces and nephews; and many dear friends.

A private committal service will be held in Lynhaven Cemetery at the convenience of her family. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Orleans at www.hospiceoforleans.org.