Mary Tankersley Woodruff

Mary Tankersley Woodruff, 99, former Columbia resident, died Thursday, December 23, 2010 at her Adams Place residence in Murfreesboro. A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 8th at 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Murfreesboro with the Revs. John Hinkle and Kaye Nickell officiating. A brief graveside service will follow at 3:00 p.m. at Rose Hill Cemetery in Columbia. Notes of condolence may be sent to www.oakesandnichols.com. The Maury County native was the daughter of the late William Vance Tankersley and Ethel Bryant Tankersley. She spent most of her life in Murfreesboro and was an original employee of the Murfreesboro Electric Department. She retired as office manager in 1976 after 37 years of service. A faithful member of First Presbyterian Church, she was also active in civic and community affairs for many years, including membership in Colonial Dames of America, Captain William Lytle Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, Woman's Club of Murfreesboro, and Oaklands Association. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gordon C. Woodruff in 1985, and a sister, Sarah Tankersley Butler. Survivors include two nephews, several cousins, and her family of friends. Memorials may be made to Children's Discovery House, 503 North Maple Street, Murfreesboro 37130; The Woman's Club, 221 East College Street, Murfreesboro 37130; or First Presbyterian Church,219 North Spring Street, Murfreesboro 37170. Oakes & Nichols Funeral Directors, Columbia, are assisting the family with arrangements.