William Scott-Miller Woodward

William Scott-Miller Woodward, age 61, of Savannah, Georgia, passed away on Sunday, May 5th, 2024, peacefully in his home while holding his wife's hand and surrounded by loving family.

Scott was born in Atlanta, Georgia, to parents James Robert and Linda Lee Woodward. A hero to many, Scott impacted and saved countless lives through his service both in his career and through volunteering and outreach, even during his final days. Scott had a gift that made others feel so loved that they seemed to gravitate towards him and he never knew a stranger. He was dedicated to his faith, family, and stewardship.

Scott joined the Savannah Police Department at a young age and quickly advanced to the rank of Sergeant. He served in various roles throughout his impressive career as an SPD sniper and member of the SWAT team, Crime Suppression Unit, TRAP, CNT, and Entry Team. Sergeant Woodward was awarded the Medal of Valor for a repelling rescue from a TV tower during a severe storm that landed him on Rescue 911. While attending Police Training in Forsyth, Georgia, Scott met the love of his life, April Jones, at a dancing hall where he asked her to dance and she happily agreed. They married shortly after and had 3 beautiful children together.

After over 30 years of service, Scott retired early to spend time with his family. He was an avid outdoorsman and explored it all through biking, camping, hiking along the Appalachian Trail, and birdwatching. He participated and placed in multiple triathlons across the southeast and often frequented Blue Ridge Parkway on his Triumph.

Scott had a natural affinity for engineering, which led him to build a life-size replica of NASA's Mercury Capsule, which can be seen on display and in simulation at the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force in Pooler, GA. Motivated to perfect his design, Scott developed plans for a second capsule that could fit two passengers at once for future grandchildren to enjoy together. With the help and patience of his family, he was able to complete this final project, NASA's Gemini capsule, before embarking on his final voyage. Known in the hearts of many as their own, beloved rocket man.

Scott followed in the footsteps of his father and earned the rank of Eagle Scout, later becoming the Scoutmaster of Troop 12. He was also elected into the Order of the Arrow, the Honors Society of the Boy Scouts of America. Scott was then followed by his son, who became a third generation Eagle Scout. He implemented an Active Shooter Program for a local church and enjoyed teaching Gun Safety and Survival Skills to the future generations. Scott held the Boy Scout Motto, “Be Prepared," as an integral part of his character; and he always was.

He is survived by his wife of 35 years, April Woodward; three children, Emily (Daniel) Hughes, William Carl Woodward, Ellie Lauren Woodward; one grandchild and namesake, Daniel Scott “Scotty” Hughes; mother, Linda Lee (Kenneth “Wayne”) Burke; two sisters, Michelle Woodward, Cynthia Woodward; and a nephew, Zachary Gillis.

The family will be receiving friends and loved ones from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at Bethel Baptist Church, 40 White Oak Lane, Richmond Hill, Georgia 31324.

A funeral service will begin at 12:00 noon directly after the visitation.

Interment and graveside salute will be held at Greenwich Cemetery, 330 Greenwich Road, Savannah, Georgia 31404.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The 200 Club with the link provided here:

https://www.our200club.com/donate-now/