Arnold Graham Woodard affectionally known to many as " Pookey" was born in Madison County, Alabama on April 12, 1955, to the late James Foster Woodard, Sr., and Edna Mae Jolly Woodard. He departed this life on June 5, 2024 at his home.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Shirley Lynn Woodard and his brother, Robert Earl Woodard.

Pookey attended Brownsboro Elementary School and graduated from Buckhorn High School. After graduation, he went to work for the City of Huntsville at the Cemetery Department where he dedicated forty (40) years of service until he retired in 2017.

Pookey was known near and far for his unique skills and pitmaster techniques. He began barbequing at an early age. His first teacher was the late Walter Jordan who was famous throughout Madison County and the surrounding areas. In eighth grade, he began his journey to pitmaster extraordinaire at Mary's Pit BBQ. Pookey's barbeque and his special barbeque sauce are requested by many across the south.

Pookey leaves to cherish his memories: a sister: Gwendolyn (George) Patton of New Market, Alabama; three brothers: James (Mattie) Woodard of Gurley, Alabama, Darnell (Janice) Woodard of LaGrange, Georgia, and Mark Woodard of Madison, Alabama; one uncle: Joseph (Mary Louise) Jolly of Austin, Texas; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives and friends.

Funeral service for Mr. Arnold G. ("Pookey") Woodard will be Friday, June 14, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. in the Nelms Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with interment to follow in Union Cemetery.

Public Viewing: Thursday, June 13, 2024 ~ 10:00 am - 8:00 pm