Deborah Jo (Kirkland) Woodward, 72, of Talladega, AL entered the arms of Jesus May 22, 2024. She was preceded in death by the love of her life, John Woodward, on September 25, 2015, her parents Marie and Sydney Kirkland (of Charlotte, SC), and sister Barbara Hull and brother-in-law Keith Hull (of Waco, TX). Deborah is survived by her nieces and nephews of Waco, TX: David Hull (Laurie), Cassandra Findley (Bobby), Phillip Hull (Cheryl), and Cynthia Lehrmann (Jeff), and their families. Deborah is also survived by brother-in-law Richard Woodward (Joyce) of Greensboro, GA, their sons Tom Woodward (Christina) and family, and Jim Woodward (Anne) and family.

Deborah was a proud graduate of Clemson University and loyal Tiger Paw fan her whole life. She graduated with a degree in education and taught third grade in South Carolina public schools from 1975-2003. Shortly after retiring, Deborah reconnected with her high school sweetheart, John Woodward. They were happily married until his passing in 2015.

Deborah also loved her church, First Baptist Talladega, the friends she met there, and her neighbors. Services will be held Monday, May 27, 2024, at 4 pm at Usrey Brown Service Funeral Home 516 N St E Talladega, AL 35160 with Robert Klotz officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church 216 N St E Talladega, AL 35160 or Wings for Christ 246 S League Ranch Rd Waco, TX 76705.