Eric Leslie Woodard

Eric Leslie Woodard, age 71, of Marion, passed away on Friday, December 16, 2022 in his home surrounded by his family.

Eric was born October 23, 1951, in New Haven, Connecticut, the son of the late Hubert C. H. Woodard and Charlotte (Bridgham) Wallace.   From an early age “Ric” was an explorer, discovering the gifts of nature and always loved fishing, beginning in his summers at Cape Porpoise, Maine.  As an adult he lived in Maine, Washington, Utah and finally settled in Marion Indiana with his beloved wife Lucy of 20 years.  Ric’s career as a long-haul truck driver spanned over 40 years, and he was known for his safe driving record.  Eric had a good sense of humor and was a loyal friend.   Eric was also a U.S. Navy Veteran.

He will be missed by his wife, Lucy M. Rice and family in Indiana and sisters, Linda Woodard of Cape Porpoise, Maine, Diane Woodard Dynia of Hamden, Connecticut, and Elizabeth Margolis-Pineo of Portland, Maine.  He is also survived by his children, Jeffrey Riddle, Deanna Riddle, Barbara (Jerry Matheny) Wilson, and Jo Ann Cora; grandchildren, Tomika and Tony Gibson, Jamie Cora, James Cora, Latisha Watkins, Amber Gray, Joe Marshall, Jimmy Moore, and Michael (Linsey) Underwood; many great-grandchildren; best friend, Cartier Tasby; and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his father and stepparents, Edith C. Woodard and Donald Wallace.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 20, 2022 at Raven-Choate Funeral Home, 1202 W. Kem Road, Marion, Indiana.  Funeral Services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, December 21, 2022 in the funeral home.  Burial will follow in Marion National Cemetery, Marion, Indiana.

Memorial contributions can be made to Cancer Services of Grant County, 305 S. Norton Avenue, Marion, Indiana 46952.

Online condolences and memories for the family can be shared at www.ravenchoate.com