Floretta Jean Woodson

Floretta Jean Woodson, age 90, peacefully went to her Lord at 3:35 a.m. on Wednesday, February 17, 2021. She was born August 2, 1930, in Walnut Grove, Missouri, the daughter of the late Clarence Harrison and Flora Ola (Bloomer) Dickerson.

Floretta was a 1948 graduate of Walnut Grove High School and pursued her desire to become a nurse by attending Drury College. She continued her nursing career by obtaining a master’s in nursing education. Her professional achievements and her love of travel and adventure allowed her to work in various locations around the country.

In 1960 her travels led her to Mt. Vernon where she accepted the position of Director of Nursing at the State Tuberculosis Sanatorium. She remained in this position for 34 years and helped lead the hospital through its many changes in mission. In addition to leading the nursing department at the hospital, she established a school of practical nursing there so the level of care for patients could be enhanced. This addition allowed expanded career opportunities for women in the area. Over the years, many nurses in the community reminded her of how she helped them advance their careers. She never forgot one person and usually had a story to tell about that nurse and what made her special.

Soon after relocating to Mt. Vernon, Floretta met Bob Woodson, and her traveling days ended, and another adventure began. They were married for 58 years. In their early retirement years, they enjoyed bus trips throughout the country. Floretta was the “go to” person at First Baptist Church for preparing deviled eggs and fruit cobblers for many church occasions. She loved writing cards and notes to friends and family, always remembering birthdays and special occasions, even up to the last month of her life. She was loving, caring, generous, hard-headed, and always derived strength from her faith.

Floretta is survived by her sister-in-law, Rae Anna McShane and numerous nieces and nephews. The family is grateful to Brian Daugherty and his family for the care they gave to Bob and Floretta in their waning years.

Floretta was preceded in death by her husband, Bob Woodson and her siblings, T.J. Dickerson, Esther Barlow Ward, Iris Dixon, and Lee Edward Dickerson.

A graveside service under the direction of the Fossett-Mosher Funeral Home in Mt. Vernon will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 23, 2021, at the Summit Cemetery. Viewing for family and friends will be held from 12:00-5:00 p.m. on Monday, February 22, 2021, in the funeral home chapel.

Memorial contributions in memory of Floretta may be made payable to the Missouri Veterans Home, Lawrence County Manor, or the First Baptist Church Mt. Vernon, in care of the funeral home.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Online condolences may be shared at this website.

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