Final Salute

William Henry Woodward, 68, passed away peacefully in his home in Norwich, Connecticut, surrounded by his loved ones after a courageous fight with cancer.

Born to Margaret and A. Lyndon Woodward on June 7, 1957, William, better known as Billy to his family and Woody to friends, grew up in River Edge, New Jersey. He enjoyed summers by the Jersey Shore with his parents and three siblings, Maureen, Margaret Mary, and Lyndon. The family’s annual road trips to various places were among his fondest memories.

Woody enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1981 and served as a Seabee for ten years. He wholeheartedly embraced one of the Seabees’ mottos, “Can Do,” and never gave up when faced with any challenge. Woody joined A/Z Corporation in 1991, working there for over 30 years as their Head Fleet Mechanic. He was dedicated not only to learning and growing in his craft, but he also made sure his coworkers and friends could rely on him for anything they needed.

Woody married his wife, Georgia Zimmer Woodward, in 1989 and remained a loving and dedicated husband throughout their 36-year marriage. His strength, humor, and wit carried them through the good times and any challenge they faced. He was an amazing father to his kids and grandson, always offering encouragement, teaching them not to sweat the small stuff, and helping them to find joy in everyday moments.

Woody enjoyed nothing more than taking his boat out for a ride in the Long Island Sound, soaking up the sunshine while fishing. There weren’t many things he couldn’t fix, and if he didn’t know how, he would most certainly figure it out. Woody extended his kindness and patience to everyone he interacted with and would never turn away from helping someone in need.

He is predeceased by his parents, Margaret and A. Lyndon, as well as his sister Maureen. He is survived by his wife, Georgia, daughter Colleen, sons Kaleb and Zeb, grandson Luca, and his siblings Margaret Mary and Lyndon.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at the Cummings-Gagne Funeral Home, 82 Cliff St., Norwich, CT. A brief time of remembrance, including a eulogy and prayer service, will follow from 7:00–7:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in William’s memory to the Denise Flaherty Foundation.

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