Mary Jean Woodward

May 22, 1931 - January 28, 2019

Mary Jean Woodward, 87, passed away peacefully with her family by her side Monday, January 28, 2019. Mrs. Woodward was born May 22, 1931 in Detroit, Michigan to Lourde and Inez Skelley. Her parents and her brother, James Skelley, precede her in death. She is survived by her husband of 68 years, E.R. ‘Russ’ Woodward; children Gregory R. Woodward & wife Natalie Woodward, Douglas J. Woodward, Shannon G. Berger & husband Rick Null, Jeffrey S. Woodward & wife Nancy Britton, Leslie “Shelly” Carlson and husband Stephen Schaefer. Mary Jean, “GeeGee” is survived by 9 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Her sister Monica Ann Smith & husband Don Smith as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Mary Jean Skelley Woodward was raised in Davenport, Iowa. As a young woman, Mary Jean professionally tap danced along side her sister Monica Ann. She met the love of her life, Russ Woodward in Iowa and married April 8, 1950. Russ’ career moved the family several times, but in 1967 they settled in Houston where they raised their 5 children and remained. Mary Jean deeply loved of her family. Her family remained her first priority until her last breath. She was an enormous advocate for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her passion remained strong through 50 years volunteer work with The Arc. Mary Jean enjoyed countless hours on the golf course and playing tennis, she was a true athlete. Most importantly she was a compassionate, kind, loving person, who never met a stranger she didn’t want to help. She always bared the burdens of others and tried to help in any way she could, she truly embodied the definition of selflessness. She is loved by all and will be deeply missed. A Memorial Service celebrating Mary Jean’s life will be held Thursday, January 31, 2019 at 3 pm. at Memorial Drive United Methodist Church, 12955 Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77079. A reception will follow services in Friendship Court on the church campus. Mrs. Woodward will be laid to rest in Memorial Oaks Cemetery in a private family ceremony. In lieu of flowers please consider contributions in Mary Jean’s memory to ARC of Spring Branch at www.arcofspringbranch/donate-or-join.html