Spring Valley, Minnesota – Reverend Deanna Marie Woodward, a cherished Methodist elder and respected member of her community, tragically passed away on October 2, 2024, at the age of 66.
Her sudden passing has left her family, friends, and the many communities she served in deep mourning.
Deanna Woodward, originally Deanna Marie Sigrist, was born on September 30, 1958, in Zumbrota, Minnesota.
She grew up on a dairy farm near Pine Island and graduated as the valedictorian of her class in 1976.
She went on to earn her BA in Religion from Hamline University in 1980 and later pursued a career in ministry alongside her husband, Reverend Mark Alan Woodward, whom she married on June 21, 1980.
Throughout her life, Deanna served various United Methodist congregations across Minnesota, including in Wykoff, Fountain, Rochester, Plainview, and Preston.
Her dedication to her faith and her love for her family, including her daughters Laura Riess and Amy Cahill, and her five grandchildren, brought joy to those around her.
A visitation will be held at Faith United Methodist Church in Spring Valley on October 7, 2024, from 4-7 p.m., with a celebration of her life the following day at 11:00 a.m.
Deanna’s compassionate spirit and devotion to her community will be remembered by all who knew her.