
Welcome to the
THE SILSBEE EDUCATORS' LEGACY SCHOLARSHIP
2027 Honorees
Charlie and Sherry Woodard
Charlie and Sherry pour into Silsbee's youth long after their retirements. The Woodards stand out as role models for our community and future leaders, I can only hope to live up to the standard they set. Anonymous Board Member.
Charlie Woodard built his career in Silsbee through years of dedication to students, athletics, and community. Coach Woodard found the motivation to return to college after spending two years working at a local paper mill – a decision grounded in determination and an unbreakable work ethic that would come to define his path. Following graduation, he began his career at Silsbee ISD as a coach and science teacher. Over the next 31 years – an extraordinary tenure by any measure – Woodard remained devoted to the same district, ultimately serving as Head Football Coach and Athletic Director. His work helped shape not only athletic programs, but the character and direction of the students entrusted with his leadership.
In the spirit of Silsbee’s strongest educators, Woodard believes that success extends beyond the scoreboard. He instills accountability, integrity, and respect – values that prepare students to contribute not only as athletes, but as members of their families and community. His athletes become an extension of his own family, and those connections continue across generations.
Even in retirement, his commitment to Silsbee remains strong. Woodard stays actively involved in supporting athletics and preserving the history and accomplishments of others through efforts like the Wall of Honor – ensuring that excellence continues to be recognized and celebrated. He is known as a steady and disciplined leader, respected by peers and trusted by students – someone who leads by example and consistently does what is right, even when it is not easy. Woodard was honored with induction into the Southeast Texas Coaches Association and named Silsbee Citizen of the Year in 2025.
Alongside his wife, he continues to invest in the future of Silsbee students, supporting educational initiatives that expand opportunities for the next generation through the annual Charlie and Sherry Woodard Golf Open that benefits the Silsbee Education Foundation.
Faith remains a guiding force in his life. Through his years of service at Silsbee Methodist Church, including leadership as president of his Sunday School class, Woodard demonstrates the same quiet dedication and servant leadership that define his career.
Sherry Woodard – Biography
Sherry Woodard built her career through a strong commitment to education, healthcare, and service – bringing knowledge, leadership, and care to each community she served, including many years in Silsbee. After graduating from nursing school, Sherry began her career working for four years in the office of Dr. Eugene Lindsey while also earning her bachelor’s degree in biology. Early on, she demonstrated a drive to continue learning while contributing meaningfully to her field.
She went on to teach for one year at Baptist Hospital School of Nursing before accepting a position in Silsbee, where she taught biology, anatomy, and physiology while completing her master’s degree. In the classroom, she helped students build both academic foundations and an understanding of the practical importance of health sciences.
Sherry was later recruited by Lamar University to assist in developing its RN nursing program. During her three years there, she contributed to building a program that prepared future nurses for the demands of the profession. After the birth of her daughter, Molly, she chose to return to Silsbee and continue her work closer to home.
Back in Silsbee ISD, Sherry accepted the newly created role of Director of Health Services, where she developed and led the program for many years. In this role, she helped establish systems and standards that supported the health and well-being of students across the district – work that continues to benefit the community.
Her career later took her to Austin, where the Texas Nurses Association selected her to lead the Nurse Oncology Education Program. In this position, she traveled throughout Texas providing in-service training for registered nurses, expanding access to specialized knowledge and strengthening healthcare practices across the state.
After returning once again to Silsbee, Sherry continued her commitment to community service as Executive Director of the Silsbee Chamber of Commerce for three years, supporting local businesses and community initiatives.
Through each chapter of her career, Sherry Woodard has demonstrated a consistent dedication to education, public health, and community leadership. Her work reflects a lasting commitment to service, strengthening both the people and programs that support her community.
Honoring Teachers / Funding Scholarships
Each year, the Silsbee Educators’ Legacy Scholarship will honor one Silsbee educator, by granting scholarships to Silsbee High School Seniors in that educator’s name. The scholarship will be awarded to students who demonstrate a devotion to school, community, family, classmates, and an unbreakable work ethic. Students can pick up applications at the Silsbee High School Office starting in January each year.
Organized by former Silsbee Principal, Gaye Lokey, and several Silsbee Alumni, all who worked full or part-time during their high school careers, the Silsbee Educators’ Legacy Scholarship will assist hardworking Silsbee seniors by expanding their educational opportunities.
The organizers aim to establish an evergreen scholarship, funded by Silsbee Alumni and the Silsbee community, that assists students for generations. One founder stated, “I believe today’s recipients will support this scholarship and the community in the future. Creating a cycle of giving that reflects Silsbee’s incredible spirit.”
Silsbee Tigers - TAKE ACTION NOW
YOU can honor great teachers, help more students, and increase the scholarships based on your pledge. You can donate at The Foundation for Southeast Texas website, select Give Back, then select the
Silsbee Educators’ Legacy Scholarship.
or
Mail a check to
the Foundation for Southeast Texas
700 North Street Beaumont, TX 77701
Put in the memo - Silsbee Eductators' Legacy Scholarship
Planting seeds today to support Silsbee for Generations

The Silsbee Educators' Legacy is excited to honor these community champions in 2027. You can honor them too, via your donation.

The Silsbee Educators' Legacy Scholarship Winners
Rhett Harkey
Auryana Gilder
with Director Gaye Lokey