Wilbert “Bill” Woodward

BIDDEFORD POOL – Wilbert “Bill” Woodward passed away peacefully on April 15, 2026 from natural causes.

Bill was predeceased by his beloved wife, Linda J. (Pratt) Woodward.

He was born on March 20, 1943, to Lester and Rena (Edwards) Woodward. The oldest but last remaining of three children, Bill was also predeceased by his brother, Robert Woodward and his sister, Elsie (Woodward) Archambault.

Bill grew up in the close-knit lobstering community of Biddeford Pool, a place that shaped his work ethic and lifelong love of the area. As a boy, he was closely connected to the Edwards family farm, which served as a local merchant store and was fondly remembered for its distinctive whale bone gate. Bill graduated from Biddeford High School in 1961.

Following high school, Bill proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1962 to 1966 as a Radar Operator aboard the USS Thomas J Gary. After returning home, he began a long career at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard with Shop 72. For 26 years, Bill was well known for picking up and dropping off fellow shipyard workers along Route 95 —that many came to depend on. He retired in 2008.

In retirement, Bill thoroughly enjoyed driving through Biddeford Pool, reflecting on his life, his family, and the many memories tied to the place he always considered home. He had a deep appreciation for his roots and found comfort in the familiar roads, stories, and people of his community. He enjoyed outdoor work, hunting, snowmobiling and an occasional Bingo game.

Bill is survived by his four children, Vaughn Woodward of Maine, Scott Woodward of Maine, Lisa (Burke) Woodward of Maine, and Carl Woodward of Florida; his four stepchildren, Gail Perry of California, Judith Perry of Virginia, Howie Leighton of Maine, and Jamie Leighton of Maine; seven grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

He will be remembered for his love of driving, Rapid Rays hamburgers, Pepsi, and daily dose of French vanilla ice cream with Hershey’s chocolate syrup.

A graveside service will be held Thursday, April 23, at 12 p.m. at Southern Maine Veterans Cemetery, 83 Stanley Rd., in Springvale.