Woodrow Martin Darter

Woodrow (Woody) Darter was born in Electra, Texas on July 23, 1918. His parents were John & Ida; and his siblings Edgar, Viola, & Bulah. He was known for his outgoing personality and precise workmanship. He attended church his entire active life and always shared God's word with those around him. He went to be with Jesus, and his loved ones in Heaven, at the age of 101, at 12:30 a.m., on Wednesday, August 21, 2019.

Woody attended schools in Electra, except his last year of high school that he spent at the Church of God Bible Training Center in Tennessee. Returning to Electra, Woody married Hazel Tommie Worton in 1935. He joined the Civil Service while residing in Childress, Texas, after their children, Darla & Tommy were born. Eventually Woody was called into the Army in 1944 during World War II. He served for two years as a Radio Operator. In 1947, Woody attended Lee College aided by the GI Bill, while he hand-built his first home. After 2 years the family returned to Electra where Woody and Hazel remained 23 years. During those years he built and repaired homes. He also taught music classes and sang in a men's gospel quartet at church and on the radio.

In 1970, Woody and Hazel moved to the Dallas area. He was employed by General Dynamics and contracted wall décor for hotels. Later, as a construction manager he built the Scyene Road Church of God. He also worked at Bonneau Company and retired from Mostec Company in Dallas. After age 65, he started his own HVAC company as a retirement career. He was also on call for 20 years building and A/C maintenance at 3D Powder Coating, (which is his son, Tom Darter Sr.'s family business). He retired at age 87. Throughout his life he enjoyed deer & bird hunting.

Even at age 100, "Grandad Woody", still occasionally mentioned his various grandchildren, great, and great-grands. He wished to talk with them about the "way to prosper by working regularly, being honest & thrifty, saving money, and supporting a good church."

Woody is survived by his children: daughter, Darla Brown McNeese; and his son, Tom Darter Sr. with wife Sylvia. He was blessed with 6 grandchildren: 4 from Darla & J.E.: Johnny Brown, Larry Brown, Delean Brown Goin & Joe Brown; and 2 from Tommy & Sylvia: Tommy Darter Jr. and Keith Darter. Woody has been blessed by 14 grandchildren; 14 great-great grands, and several nieces, nephews and many friends. He was also kindly cared for by Doris Pittsinger and her family for 12 years.