James Loy Woodring

James Loy Woodring, of Gainesville, went home to Jesus and other loved ones on January 16, 2015 following a gallant battle with leukemia. He was a true man of faith and was a devoted husband, father, son and brother. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Debbie, mother, father, sisters, brothers, and other relatives and friends. He is survived by his precious, beautiful wife of 67 years, Mrs. Inez Woodring , his daughter, Dr. Gaye Cronin and her husband, Mr. Charlie Cronin, his brother Mr. Vaughn Woodring, sister Mrs. Louell Roper, brother Mr. Evan Woodring and his wife Mrs. Grace Woodring, sister in-law Mrs. Eloise Woodring, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives.

Mr. Woodring was born on April 26, 1922, in Blairsville, Georgia, worked on the family farm, attended school, then as a young man, he loyally served his country in the United Stated Army and fought in some of the largest battles in France (including the beaches at Normandy and Saint Lo) and throughout Europe. He received a purple heart for injuries incurred and bravery displayed during combat in World War II. He was a part of the Greatest Generation and was truly a great Christian man of integrity. He was also recognized and honored by the Honor Flight Program at the World War II Memorial in Washington, DC, for his military service.

He married is sweet Inez in 1947 and their Christian marriage of love and devotion was an inspiration to everyone that knew them. She was his tender, loving, devoted caregiver during this difficult illness. They displayed amazing courage and dignity, and as she says, 'we always take care of each other.'

He was an exemplary employee at the New Holland Textile Mill, a trusted manager of Smith's store, and a loyal employee at General Motors Corporation in Doraville, Georgia, after returning from the war.

He was an active member of Springway Baptist Church, where he has not missed, except twice for illness, Sunday school or Church service in 66 plus consecutive years. This is an amazing record. He was a man of faith, loyal and a wonderful Christian example. Mr. Woodring served as Chairman of the Deacons, Sunday School and Training Union teacher, and was a leader in many aspects of church administration, missions and ministries. He was philanthropic to many community charitable and ministry causes. Loy was loved by many and loved his family and friends dearly. He was a kind, gentle, caring, patriotic, hard-working, honorable and fine Godly man, who enriched, encouraged, touched, and blessed many lives. He was instrumental in many coming to Christ, a man of proven character, and his life was a true legacy.

A service to honor him will be held Monday, Januay 19, 2015 at 1:00 pm in the Chapel at Little and Davenport Funeral Home and visitation will be from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Little and Davenport.

Condolences can be sent on line to Little and Davenport.com and contributions can be made to the Gideon's ministry, or a charity, ministry or church of your choosing.

Little and Davenport Funeral Home has been entrusted with funeral arrangements and burial will be at Memorial Park Cemetery.