David Woodward (4 Sep 1948 - 12 Dec 2025)

In loving memory of David Woodward (Dave), aged 77, who passed away peacefully on 12th December 2025 in Elmswell, nr Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, England. Born on 4th Septenber,1948 in Bebington, on the Wirral, Dave had been a very hard working family man, whose working life was dedicated to providing the best possible future for his family, working hard in the Food Industry, first selling, and then marketing, flavours and additives to food manufacturers all over the world, 13 years of that included living and working in The Netherlands. He ended his working life as Global Marketing Director for ICI. Poor heart health meant early retirement at only 53.
He loved life; he loved people and loved to help people in need. He would help anyone who needed it. On retirement in Suffolk, he pitched in with raising funds for a new village hall, and saw it open nine years later. His fundraising skills were also put to good use in his local church, raising funds for many projects to keep the 14C church from falling down. Amongst them a 150K project to restore and conserve all the church windows. He was Trustee to a local charity, overseeing the funds and ensuring they were used well.
As a freemason, he became Almoner of his Lodge and supported the Lodge widows and anyone in need. Through contacts at his local church, he was also appointed a ‘Chaplain in the Workplace’ where he was available to all sorts of people in all sorts of workplaces – supermarkets, the Police force, Greene King Brewery for example. Once again he found his niche in matching people with the help they needed and he loved it.
Dave was known though out the area for his cheerful demeanour, his friendly welcome and desire to help. He had passions: - horseracing, target shooting, fishing, his dogs, all things rural, the history of many things, especially his local church, but primarily, his family always came first. His ‘three cheek’ kisses and wearing of shorts in all weathers will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Dave is survived by his wife Lynne, their sons Carl and Mark and two much loved granddaughters.
A private family cremation will be held on 20 January 2026 at West Suffolk Crematorium, followed by a Celebration of his life in All Saints Church, Drinkstone at 2pm. Other than Family flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to St. Nicholas’ Hospice, Bury St. Edmunds.