John Thomas "Tom" Woodard

It’s with heavy hearts we share that our beloved brother, John Thomas (Tom) Woodard died on January 27, 2026 after a seven year battle with Lewy Body Dementia. Tom was born in Steubenville, Ohio, on July 2, 1956 to Austin and Sarah Woodard who proceeded him in death. He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Austin and Carol Woodard and nephew Jason Martin, all of Madison, Wisconsin; brother, William Woodard of Canton, Ohio, sister-in-law Anne Woodard of Canton, Ohio, and his much loved nieces Heather, Elizabeth and Kristin.

Although Tom faced many challenges during his life, he was blessed with a committed loving family who were dedicated to ensuring Tom reached his potential and enjoyed a meaningful quality of life. Tom’s parents were instrumental in the founding of the Jefferson County School of Bright Promise and JeffCo Workshop. For many years Tom’s father served as the treasurer of Jefferson County Board of Mental Retardation.

Tom was a gregarious man with many interests, he loved country music, Mr. Rogers, cheeseburgers, a cold beer and the Michigan Wolverines (his father’s and brother Bill’s alma mater).

In 1987, Tom moved to Madison to live with Austin, Carol and Jason. He contended that the move was just a visit because Steubenville was home, a stance he maintained until the end. For many years Tom and Jason lived in their own home with the support of Community Living Connections Staff enjoying Special Olympics activities and rich social lives.

We wish to thank the Stoughton, Wisconsin, CLC staff who cared for Tom these past four years, Lisa, Estela, Lesli, and Brad. Your dedication and professionalism were so appreciated and treasured as you guided us through our long goodbye with Tom. Words cannot express what your support has ment to us.

So as we say our final goodbye to Tom we will remember his loving spirit every time we hear “Go Blue”!

Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com

Cress Center

6021 University Ave. Madison

(608) 238-8406