Alphus Woodard Sr.

Alphus Woodard, Sr., was born on March 10, 1931, in Tillatoba, Mississippi to Bruce Anthony and Olivia Anderson Woodard, whom both preceded him in death; and was affectionately known as “PaPa” by all who knew and loved him.

Alphus Sr. departed this life on Sunday, May  24, 2026, at 12:30 pm at his home in Michigan City, Indiana.

Alphus Sr. left the South and moved to Michigan City in 1955. He retired from Weil-McLain in Michigan City, Indiana after 24 years of service. He loved taking trips down South, going to family reunions, watching westerns, sports, listening to the blues, and cracking jokes. But above all else, he loved to “PARTY” with his family and friends… where a good time was had by all! 

He leaves to cherish his fond memories, five children, Willie Milsap, Gladys Milsap, Clarence Milsap Sr. and Alphus (Adrian) Woodard, Jr, all of Michigan City, Indiana and Tina Woodard-Johnson of Fishers, Indiana, one brother; Dennis (Linda) Woodard of Memphis, Tennessee, three sisters; Eunice Dickens and Bertha Peterson, both of Michigan City, Indiana and Florida (Bill) Pryor of Detroit, Michigan. His grandchildren, Shayla Milsap, Clarence Milsap, Jr., DeJuan Denwood, Joseph Milsap, Sharelle Alexander, Cassihde Mobley, Ciara Woodard, Aniya Woodard and Eric Theodore Tristan Johnson, thirteen great-grandchildren; special friends; Robert Lee Dukes and Chris Anderson, his beloved nephew, Damieon Coppage, Tammy Robinson, Tina Phillips. and a host of other relatives and friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to his personal care team; Bea Jackson, Gloria Peals, Anthony Neal, Josetta Wilborn, Valerie Anderson, Ernestine Rivera, Terry Woodard and his beloved granddaughter, Aniya Woodard, for standing by his side and providing great care, having them around brought him great joy as he transitioned.

He was preceded in death by his son; Charles Woodard, his daughter, Shirley Woodard; long-time companion, Annie Milsap, four sisters; Minnie Garner, Maxine Towns, Robbie Phillips and Emma Garner, and three brothers; Robert Sumlin, Crender Woodard and Martin Woodard.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, May 30, 2026 at 10:00am at New Hope MB Church, 730 W. 6th St. Michigan City, Indiana 46360.

Visitation will be 9:00am until time of service at the Church. Burial to follow immediately after services at Swan Lake Memorial Gardens 5700 E. US 20 Michigan City, Indiana 46360.

PLEASE UTILIZE OUR TRIBUTE WALL ON HERE TO LEAVE CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY OR LIGHT A CANDLE IN HIS HONOR. 

ALSO, PLEASE KEEP THE FAMILY OF MR. WOODARD LIFTED UP IN YOUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS, IN THIS MOST DIFFICULT TIME. 

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