James Woodard

James (Jim) Michael Woodard , 59, of Nevada Texas passed from this earthly life on April 7, 2026.

He was born on November 8, 1966, in Rochester, New York to Jim and Agnes (Weit) Woodard. Over the years, Jim wore many career hats, but the ones he held as most important were being a full-time volunteer for Plano Youth Soccer Association for many years and the owner and operator of Silver Star Pest Control.

Jim met his wife, Sonja, during his soccer volunteering tenure and they married on March 1, 2014.

Jim was known as a devoted family man and even more, as Coach. He spent countless hours volunteering with youth soccer teaching kids how to kick a ball, try again, and maybe not punch each other in the face. His coaching style was a perfect mix of encouragement, humor, and the occasional “quick, quick, quick”

At home, Jim was the proud cornerstone of his family, a role he took very seriously. He was endlessly proud of his children and grandchildren, always showing up and probably offering advice that may or may not have been helpful, but was always heartfelt.

Above all, he was deeply in love with his beautiful wife, Sonja, who somehow managed to put up with his dad jokes, his projects, and his ability to leave the important things “for later”. Their love was strong, steady, and full of laughter. The kind of love people hope for but rarely get to witness so clearly.

He will be remembered for his big heart, his generous spirit, and his braggy Facebook pictures of what he cooked his wife for dinner. While he may be gone, we’re fairly certain he is telling everyone “Do you know who she is?”

In his honor, hug your family a little tighter, laugh a little louder, and if a ball rolls your way… well, you know what to do.

Jim’s memory will be cherished by his wife, Sonja (Patterson) Woodard, daughter Deshae (Matt) Sloan, daughter Lauryn (Justin) Leal, son Sage Yost, daughter Storm(Richard) Salopek, son Tim (Tiffani) Woodard, son Austin (Erica) Woodard, and daughter Emi Woodard. He was a fun loving Jimpa to grandchildren Eli Chavez, Tripp Salopek, Janelle Woodard, Jayd Cox, Hollie Turner, Deegan Sloan, Garrett Salopek, Madelyn Salopek, Sammy Sloan, Cooper Keesy, and soon to be born Gabby Woodard. He is also survived by his mother Agnes Woodard; siblings Donna (David) Schmidt, Karen (David) Woodward, Bob Woodard, and Paul (Renee) Woodard and a multitude of cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Pallbearers are Eli Chavez, Jeff Murray, John O’Kane, Richard Salopek, Tripp Salopek, Thomas Schattner, and Matt Sloan.

Preceding Jim in death are his father, Jim Woodard, and brother, David Woodard.

In honor of Jim’s passion for soccer, please feel free to wear your favorite jersey, t-shirt, or referee gear to the Saturday service.

Those who can laugh at death hold great power. Death will be the end of all of us, but fun obituaries remind us that those who live good lives have nothing to fear from death.