Rachel “Red” Geraldine Woolard

Rachel Geraldine Woolard, 98, of Wilmington, NC, passed away on June 19, 2015. . She was born in Rocky Mount, NC on December 19th, 1916, to Lucy Sullivan Woolard and E. William Woolard and was the second oldest of four sisters. Rachel graduated from Womens College of the University of NC in 1938 with a BA of Arts and Science, and she received her MA in Arts and Sciences from New York University in 1944. After graduating, she resided in Durham NC with her dear companion, Olive Brown. Rachel taught in the public school system until retirement. She relocated to Wilmington in 1997 and resided with her sister, Margaret Thomas Woolard. Rachel was a health, science and physical education teacher in the Durham NC area for over 40 years as well as an assistant principal. She was well respected and loved by students and teachers alike. Former students have frequently located her to express their appreciation for the impact she made upon their lives. Rachel, “Red,” lovingly named for her beautiful red hair, was co-owner of a beach house at Oak Island with her longtime friend Olive Brown, “Brown.” She shared her love of the beach and nature with family and friends and the house was called, “Red and Brown.” Rachel imparted wisdom, humor and integrity to all with whom she came in contact. She was truly an amazing woman. Rachel is survived by her younger sister, Margaret Thomas Woolard, of Wilmington, NC; her nieces Julie Soloway Poole, Susan Soloway Daul (Charles) and Bette Ipsen Soloway (Pete). She also is survived by seven great nieces and nephews as well as one great, great niece, as well as by the recently extended family of numerous, loving caregivers. Graveside committal will be held at 3:00pm on Saturday, June 27, 2015 at Pineview Cemetery, 436 Pineview Street, Rocky Mount, NC 27803. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made in Rachel Geraldine Woolards honor to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation. Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Home Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief. Cemetery Pineview Cemetery 761 N. Raleigh Road Rocky Mount, NC 27801