Howard Walker Woodruff died on August 20, 2005, in Independence, Mo.
Howard was born in Independence on October 7, 1910, to Myrtle and Walker Woodruff. He graduated from William Chrisman High School in 1930, Central Methodist College at Fayette, in 1935, and Perkins School of Theology at SMU, Dallas, Texas in 1940.
Howard married Audrey Lee Wagner from Stanley, Kans. on August 22, 1933. They were a “team” in the ministry and always considered their appointment a joint service in their Christian faith.
From the time he was seven years old, Howard knew he was going to be a Methodist Minister. He is one of the last of the real “circuit riders”. All of the churches he served were in Missouri, which included service in Ava for five years from 1943-1948, and during World War II, Howard also taught in Ava High School.
Audrey, his wife, preceded him in death in 1996, and one son, William Walker Woodruff in 2000.
He is survived by one daughter, Carole Anne Golden of Independence, Mo.; a daughter-in-law, Terry Woodruff of Raytown, Mo.; one brother, William Harold Woodruff, Independence; and a brother-in-law, Rev. Charles Burner of Kansas City, Mo.
Howard enjoyed the fellowship and friendship of the community. He had a great thirst for knowledge and enjoyed writing poetry. The “idea man” was what folks called him. Howard had a smile and laugh and caring love that will be truly missed by those who knew and loved him.
Funeral services were held August 24, at Christ United Methodist Church, Independence, Mo. Burial was in Woodlawn Cemetery on Noland Road, Independence, Mo.
Memorial contributions may be made to a church of choice, or Camp Galilee, P. O. Box 520, El Dorado Springs, Mo. 64744.
