DEXTER - Avon T. Woodard, 79, died May 17, 2013 at home with his wife of 61 years, Beryl (Sevey) Woodard. He was born June 5, 1933 in Dexter a son of Avon Bert and Philixina (Pooler) Woodard. Avon graduated from Dexter High School, Class of 1951. Avon and Beryl were married that same year. He also served in the U. S. Army Reserves. He operated a number of businesses in the area, including the Ripley General Store, Woodard's Garage, Woodard's Appliances and Dexter Rental Storage.

Avon attended the First Baptist Church in Dexter and was instrumental in the Dexter Area Food Bank. He also participated in the Dexter Nursing Home Sing-A-Long.

In addition to his wife of Dexter, he is survived by 6 children, Irene R. Davis of Cambridge, Steven M. Woodard of Gardiner, Timothy A. Woodard of Bucksport, David A. Woodard of Winthrop, Leslie P. Woodard of Dexter, and John E. Woodard of Portland; a sister, Evelyn Jean Fields of Dexter; a sister in law, Ruth Sevey of Ripley; 15 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; several cousins including a special cousin Harold Woodard, Jr.; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held 3 PM Thursday, May 23rd, at First Baptist Church, 5 Main Street Hill, Dexter, with the Revs. Andrew Spohrer and Jay Brennan officiating. Friends may call from 2 PM until the time of services. Burial will be in Ferndale Cemetery, Ripley. Arrangements are by Crosby & Neal, Dexter.