Kaye Woodward

Kaye Woodward, 81, was born June 1, 1943, in Franklin, Idaho, to Doris Irene Skeem and Ivan Hart Woodward. She passed away peacefully on January 4, 2025, in Franklin, Idaho. The eldest of eight children, Kaye grew up in Franklin. She attended first grade at Fairview Elementary and second through eighth grade at Franklin Elementary before graduating from Preston High School in 1961 in the top ten percent of her class. During her high school years, she was active in the band, baton corps, and served as president of the Women’s Athletic Club.

Kaye’s love for learning led her to pursue higher education at Ricks College where she earned her associate degree in business in 1963. While at Ricks College, she joined the dance company, played sports, and was the President of Kappa Omega. Kaye determined she would graduate with her bachelor’s degree in three years and did just that when she graduated from Utah State University with a Bachelor of Science in 1964. Following her college graduation, she put in her mission papers and told her family she would serve anywhere but China. Kaye served a 2-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints speaking Mandarin Chinese in the Southern Far East Mission, which included Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the Philippines. There was no MTC at that time, and she had to learn what she called “the hardest of all languages” in the field. Those who served with her became forever friends. The experiences Kaye had on her mission shaped the rest of her life, and her faithful service had far-reaching effects.

Upon returning from her mission, Kaye’s professional career began as a junior high school teacher in Huntsville, Utah. After one year, she moved to Orem, Utah, where she taught English for the next 28 years. She was beloved by her students and colleagues alike. While teaching at Orem High School, Kaye also earned a master’s degree in Recreation Education in 1971. Following her mother’s passing, Kaye retired from teaching in Utah and returned to her roots. She bought her mother’s home in Franklin and taught English for another 12 years at Preston High School in Preston, Idaho, before retiring fully in 2008. While teaching in both Idaho and Utah, Kaye was officially the cheer coach for well over two decades; but cheering on her students and family was a lifelong pursuit. Even after her retirement, Kaye continued to mentor those who sought her guidance, driven by her lifelong passion for teaching and helping others realize their potential.

Kaye was also passionate about teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ and loving those around her. She served in numerous church callings, including Relief Society President, Primary President, Gospel Doctrine Teacher, and Adult Institute Instructor. Her dedication extended to her love of family history, where she worked tirelessly to connect generations and preserve her family’s legacy. Helping those in need was a constant theme throughout her life, reflecting her deep compassion and unwavering faith.

Kaye was known by many names. She was a covenant keeper, a beloved daughter, a big sister, Aunt Kaye, a missionary, Miss Woodward, Katie Claus (aka Santa Claus), a loyal friend and a champion of the underdog. Kaye’s life was a testament to her faith in Jesus Christ, her love for teaching, and her devotion to family and service. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, knowledge, and inspiration that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

After undergoing open-heart surgery and seven months of rehabilitation, Kaye spent her final six and a half years at the home of her brother Rex and his wife Betty, who lovingly cared for her every need. Their kindness and devotion allowed Kaye to enjoy her later years in comfort, surrounded by loved ones. 

Kaye is survived by her sisters, Lana (Kurt) Kotter of Weston, Idaho, and Sharon (Terry) Kilpatrick of Highland, Utah; her brothers, Rex (Betty) Woodward of Franklin, Idaho, Van (Greta) Woodward of Weston, Idaho, and Don (Silvia) Woodward of Franklin, Idaho. She is also lovingly remembered by her 29 nieces and nephews, as well as many great-nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Monte Skeem and Bill Ray Woodward, a nephew-in-law called Dino Trinidad, a great-niece Rainha Nicole Woodward, and a great-nephew Samuel Robert Dougal.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Daniel Patten, our angel Mari Naef, and Franklin County Medical Center Hospice for their loving care. 

Funeral services will be held Friday, January 10, 2025, at 12:00 Noon at the Franklin Idaho Stake Center, located at 112 East Main, Franklin, Idaho 83237. A viewing will be held at the church prior to the funeral from 10:00 to 11:30 AM. There will also be a viewing the night before, Thursday, January 9, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, at the Webb Funeral Home located at 1005 S 800 E, Preston, ID 83263. Interment will be at the Franklin Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at webbmortuary.com

Services will be live streamed and can be viewed Friday at 12:00 pm MST by clicking on the following link:

https://youtube.com/live/QVbKSD8-1KU?feature=share