Elizabeth Ann Woodall (née Young)

Elizabeth Ann Woodall (née Young) in her 88^th year passed peacefully at University Hospital in London, Ontario on September 14, 2024.

Loving wife of John Lawrence Woodall, who passed away in 1998.  Predeceased by her beloved parents Russell Young and Ruth Young (Andrewes) and brother Douglas Young (Marily).  A wonderful and loving mother to Kimberley Gelz (Jorg) and Michael Woodall (Nancy). Elizabeth adored her grandchildren Stephanie Gelz (Travis), Derek Gelz, Eva Woodall, and Edgar Woodall.  Elizabeth is also survived by her nephews Sam Young and Richard Young (Debbie), as well as cousins, grandnieces, grandnephews and sister in-law Sandy.  Elizabeth’s family, the Gelz Family and her fellow Out-Laws will miss her dearly, as will the friends of Kim & Jorg, Michael & Nancy, and her lovely neighbourhood friends.

Elizabeth was born in Grimsby, Ontario on December 18, 1936 and grew up on a fruit farm there. She talked fondly of her childhood and all of her memories on the farm.  In recent years, she had the thrilling and emotional opportunity to go into her childhood farmhouse before it was renovated.  Elizabeth left Grimsby for Toronto, where she studied nursing.  She landed a job at Victoria Hospital in London and took up residence at the YMCA where she met her man, John, who was also living at the Y.  It wasn’t long before they were married, had two children and were living in their family home of 35 years on Briarhill Avenue.  Many friends and adventures were had there before John passed and she moved to a condo on Highbury Avenue in London. Her childhood dining table, which has been a hub of connection for family and loved ones for over a hundred years, followed her there and will remain in the family.  Elizabeth was very comfortable in her homey condo and was quick to make friends and set up her gardens.  Of all her gracious and friendly neighbors, two were exceptionally kind and helpful to her in her later years (Nancy & Gerry and Janet & Rob).  The family thanks them for their kind and unconditional support.

Elizabeth enjoyed the outdoors and her gardens.  She spent many an hour tending them and was fulfilled by her handywork.  Her outdoor spaces were always inviting and were a peaceful space to spend time reading, doing crosswords, and visiting over iced tea with those she loved.

Elizabeth’s ultimate joy was her grandchildren.  Stephanie and Derek spent a lot of time with Grandma as youngsters.  Elizabeth was proud to watch them as they conquered school, started careers, and grew up to be wonderful, caring adults.  Even as adults there was always time for Gramz.  Lots of visits, helping with chores, and decorating for Christmas.   They were all a big part of each other’s lives and enjoyed their time together.  Much younger Californians Eva and Edgar brought joy with visits, cards, notes and calls.  Mike and Nancy shared pictures regularly to keep Elizbeth updated on what they were up to.  Gram Cracker enjoyed reading with the kids, playing games, listening to them play the piano or just talking when she was with them.  Eva and Edgar are growing up so fast and she was proud of their accomplishments so far.  She adored all of her grandchildren.  They will miss her very much.

The family would like to thank our angel, Nancy, who was Mom’s caregiver for the past year.  They became great friends and enjoyed a mean game of Bananagrams together along with many hours of conversation.  We are also very grateful for the care and support received by the doctors, nurses, and PSW’s at University Hospital over Elizabeth’s many visits.

Cremation was managed by Northview Funeral Chapel & Cremation Centre and entrusted to Southwest Crematoriums Ltd.  Elizabeth’s memory will be honoured at a Celebration of Life to be held at the Graham Family Eco Park from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. on June 14, 2025 when the whole family is able to join.  We hope you are able to join us to share stories of times spent with our Mom, Grandma, family member, friend.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to Operation Smile or London’s Parkwood Hospital’s Rehabilitation Program. Elizabeth worked with the doctor who started Operation Smile and was passionate about his work.  Because of this, and her uncle who had a cleft pallet, she has supported this cause from the beginning.  Elizabeth had benefited from the amazing rehabilitation program at Parkwood a couple of times and knew first-hand the fabulous work they do.