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Livestream Link for Woodrow Washington Funeral Service https://vimeo.com/event/4998851 Woodrow Wilson Washington, affectionately known as “Woody,” was born on December 21, 1947, in Austin, Texas, to Isiah and Mary Frances Washington. From the very beginning, Woody’s life was one of purpose, love, and service—a journey that has left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him. As a young man, Woody came to know Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, professing his faith at an early age at Mt. Zion Baptist Church under the guidance of the late Rev. S.A. Davis. It was there, in the embrace of faith, that Woody's love for music and ministry began to flourish—a love that would continue to grow throughout his life. After graduating from Stephen F. Austin High School in 1966, Woody’s path led him to further his education at Austin Community College (ACC), where he earned an Associates of Arts Degree on May 14, 1977. But long before graduating from ACC, Woody’s sense of duty and devotion to his country led him to enlist in the United States Air Force. Woodrow entered military service with the United States Air Force on February 9, 1967, proudly serving his country during the Vietnam War. He served in Vung Tau, Vietnam, and completed four years of active duty before being released as a Sergeant on February 8, 1971. Woodrow honorably completed his service in the reserves, receiving an honorable discharge on February 8, 1973. As a testament to his dedication to serving his country, in 2012, he, along with other courageous servicemen, was invited to Washington, D.C., by President Barack Obama to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, honoring the service and sacrifice of Vietnam veterans and their families. Following his military service, Woodrow chose a path that would allow him to continue serving others in a deeply personal way. He pursued a career in funeral services, dedicating his life to providing comfort and care for families in their most difficult times. He graduated from the Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service, Decatur, Georgia, on February 20, 1987. Soon after, he was licensed as an Embalmer by the Texas Funeral Service Commission in 1988, and as a Funeral Director in 1990. In every step of his professional journey, Woodrow’s compassion and commitment shone through, as he worked tirelessly to help others navigate their grief with dignity. But beyond his professional accomplishments, Woody’s legacy will forever be tied to his extraordinary gift of music. He was a masterful gospel musician, whose love for the piano and organ was only surpassed by his passion for worship. Woody’s music was not simply notes on a page—it was the very breath of his soul, a gift that he shared with others at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church (Austin, Texas), Mt. Woodrow Missionary Baptist Church (Cedar Creek, Texas), and New Hope Missionary Baptist Church (Austin, Texas). He played for countless choirs, male choruses, and youth groups, including the National Baptist Convention of America (NBCA) and the Missionary Baptist General Convention of Texas leaving an unforgettable imprint on each congregation he touched. His soaring high soprano voice, full of anointed power, moved anyone fortunate enough to hear it. It was not just a voice—it was a vessel for worship, a conduit through which God's love and grace flowed freely. Woody was preceded in death by his devoted parents, Isiah and Mary Frances Washington; his brothers, Rev. Frank Washington Sr., Aaron Washington, and Roy Washington; his bonus brother, Albert L. Black; his sisters, Florine Moore and Linda Joyce Washington; and his brothers-in-law, L.C. Williams Sr. and Leon Clark Jr. Woodrow Wilson Washington leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, service, and music that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him. He is survived by his brothers, Robert L. Washington (Joyce), Arthur L. Washington (Edna), Carl Washington, Martin Washington, Clarence Washington, and Darryl Washington (Juanita); his sisters, Mary D. McClintock (Ray), Julia Williams, Earnestine Clark, and Mary L. Moore; along with 13 nephews, nine nieces, and a host of cherished family members and friends who will continue to honor his memory.

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Woodrow Wilson Washington

December 21, 1947 - March 10, 2025