It is with great sadness that the Boca Grande Historical Society learned of Henry "Smiley" Woodward's passing.
Born Nov. 8, 1931, in Clewiston, Henry L. Woodward, 80, known to many as "Smiley," passed away Wednesday, Aug. 1, in Port Charlotte. A lung cancer survivor, Woodward lost the battle with dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
She grew up in Boca Grande as a child, and later moved to Los Angeles where she lived for more than 40 years.
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Henry “Smiley” Woodward
An honorary member of the Boca Grande Historical Society, Woodward took part in a 2005 history program reminiscing about growing up in Boca Grande. She charmed the audience with her special memories and re-established herself as a member of a very special community for which she will be remembered in our archives. As a result, she and the black community of Boca Grande will not be forgotten.
Upon retiring from 20 years at Xerox, she moved to Punta Gorda, where she was active in many community organizations. Woodward was also active with historical projects in Boca Grande.
Woodward is survived by her family members, including daughters, Tyrene R. Bristol of Jacksonville and Michele Stokes of Boca Raton; several grandchildren; and a great-grandchild.
Funeral services were held Aug. 10 at St. Mary's Primitive Baptist Church, 605 Mary St., Punta Gorda. Burial was at Carl Bailey Cemetery of Cleveland, Fla.
