TEXARKANA — Tommy Woodson,

age 86, of Texarkana, Ark., died on Monday, December 18, 2023, peacefully, at his home, surrounded by his family.

Tommy was born November 15, 1937, in Borger, Texas. He was a devoted husband, father, and Dad-Dad. He is preceded in death by his wife of 64 years Carol Woodson, his parents, Dale and Sallie Woodson; and four brothers, Dale, John, Joe and Jimmy.

Tommy and Carol were married in Augusta, Georgia, and from there traveled the world before settling in Conway, Ark., to raise their family and build their business. They later relocated to Texarkana where they have made their home for the last three decades.

Tommy was a beloved Father and Dad-Dad to his family who will miss him greatly: three children, Julie Wilcox, Lisa Ellett, and Jeffrey (Ahniang) Woodson; eight grandchildren, Gabe (Haley) Wilcox, Annie (Garrett) Mikel, Ericka (Chad) Hawkins, Chase Ellett, Izzy Woodson, NuNu Woodson, TomTom Woodson, and Mang Ku Woodson; six great-grandchildren, Woody and Junie Wilcox, Leo and Lucy Mikel, and Ace and Addison Hawkins; bonus grandchildren, Beau and Shannon Wilcox, and their children, Graham and Hayes; dear friend and caregiver, Maggie Hughes; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Tommy’s greatest joy in life was his family. He was known as “The Baby Whisperer,” as he adored and was adored by all babies, but especially his own. If there was a baby around it would either be on his hip or he would be crawling beside them making them laugh. Every action he took was for the love of his family: how hard he worked, how freely he gave, how quickly he embraced. Dad-Dad had a long and successful career that provided for so many family members, friends and community. Though he never officially retired, when he found spare moments he took great pleasure in his yard, tending his flowers and vegetables. Many hours were spent with his beloved wife on the back porch, watching the comings and goings of the birds, squirrels and rabbits. His azaleas were famously beautiful, and his tomatoes particularly delicious. He was a dedicated fan of the Razorbacks (all sports) and especially the Atlanta Braves; he watched nearly every single game from his recliner (and many in person with his grandchildren) from the rotten years through two World Series titles. His role as grandfather and great-grandfather had many responsibilities including but not limited to, driving lessons, baseball and basketball practice, making the best breakfasts, new-shoe shopping, dance recitals and memorable vacations together. It is hard to put into words what a figure, what a giant he was to his family. He was truly larger than life. Even if we’d had 50 more years with him we would be no less shattered by his loss, we would still always want more.

Graveside services will be at 11 a.m., Thursday, December 21st, 2023, at Sweet Home Cemetery in Prescott, Ark. Burial will be under the direction of Texarkana Funeral Home, Ark. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Randy Sams Outreach Shelter of Texarkana.

Register online at www.texarkanafuneralhome.com.