With profound love and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we celebrate the homegoing of a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Geraldine Woodard Henry, who passed away peacefully before the dawn of morning Wednesday, July 16, 2025. With an indubitable presence and unparalleled energy, she leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering faith.

Born on August 8, 1947, in Thomaston, Upson County, Georgia, she was the cherished daughter of the late Aldine and Mary Lizzie (Mallory) Woodard. From an early age, she exuded a spirit of compassion, and evident was her faith, leading to her lifelong walk with God, which began as a child at Greater Mount Zion Baptist Church in Thomaston, GA.

A proud graduate of Drake High School, Class of 1965, she went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Fort Valley State College (now University) in 1969. With a heart for nurturing and guiding young minds, she began her teaching career that same year at Booker High School in Barnesville, GA. In 1970, she joined the Dougherty County School System, where she would go on to spend 30 impactful years as an English teacher at Dougherty Comprehensive High School, in Albany, GA. Her influence in the classroom extended well beyond academics—she molded futures, uplifted spirits, and inspired countless students with her keen wisdom and steadfast care.

A faithful member of Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Albany, GA, she served dutifully with Mission Circle #5, always exemplifying grace, humility, and a servant's heart.

Though her physical absence is mourned, she leaves behind a beautiful legacy worthy of admiration and rejoicing. Her endearing love and luminescence live on through her sons, Ryan (Nekola) Ward and Brandon Henry, both of Albany, GA; her beloved grandchildren, Haley and
Hayden Ward of Albany, GA; her devoted sisters, her twin Allene (Robert) Prater and Jammie Tolbert, both of Thomaston, GA; her nieces, Asa Woodard of Lawrenceville, GA, and Annette Woodard of Atlanta, GA.

She was a guiding presence and second mother to many, including her cherished bonus daughters: Tracy (William) Purvis of Houston, TX, and Teresa Taylor of Marietta, GA; as well as her bonus grandchildren: Cori Lee of Warner Robins, GA, Dennis Mulkey of Stone Mountain, GA, and Treasure Mulkey of Houston, TX. A special place in her heart was held for her godson, Christopher Fryer of Albany, GA. Her life touched many, and she is lovingly remembered by a host of extended family members, dear friends, former students, and all who were blessed to know her.

She was a woman of unparalleled strength, deep compassion, and unshakable faith. Her unrivaled presence and warm smile brought comfort to all, and her unwavering love for her family was the foundation upon which her beautiful life was built. Though her physical walk has concluded, her loving spirit remains—eternal and ever-present in the hearts of those she held dear.