Karla Woodruff
Celebrating Community and Commitment
In October 2024, the Hilliard Ohio Historical Society (HOHS) hosted a heartwarming celebration of love and community as two of its cherished members, Karla Kensey and Tim Woodruff, exchanged vows in the Village Church—a place deeply meaningful to them both. Both had previously lost their spouses and found renewed joy in each other’s companionship. Their union is a testament to the enduring connections forged within the Historical Society.
A Journey to Hilliard
Karla’s journey to Hilliard began in 1989 when she and her first husband, Rich Kensey, relocated from Sunbury. At the time, Karla was teaching in Hilliard and commuting, but the adoption of their daughter that same year inspired the family to move closer to her work, allowing Karla to spend more time at home. For 26 years, Hilliard was where they built their lives and created lasting memories. In 2015, the couple moved to Logan County, marking a new chapter. Karla’s story came full circle in 2024 when she married Tim and returned to Hilliard, once again immersing herself in the warmth and vibrancy of the community she has long held dear.
A Lifelong Connection to the HOHS
Karla’s relationship with the Historical Society spans decades. She became a lifetime member in 2008, but her involvement traces back to the early 1990s when her mother-in-law, Dotty Kensey, introduced her to the society. Dotty often opened the village church for weddings, and in 1993, Karla collaborated with members Esther Marsh and Pat Garbrandt to locate missing yearbooks and graduation programs for the Archival Library. Her bond with the HOHS deepened when Tim and Rich, who worked together as school bus drivers, invited Karla and Rich to assist with a military display at the museum. That experience solidified her commitment to the society and its mission. Passion for Preservation For Karla, the HOHS represents a community dedicated to preserving local history through storytelling, education, and artifact conservation. “I deeply appreciate how committed the Board of Directors and members are to promoting local history,” she shares. As a docent in the school and museum, Karla finds joy in sharing Hilliard’s rich history with visitors. She’s eager to expand her knowledge, particularly about the village church, as part of her ongoing service. Looking ahead, she envisions updates to exhibits, the integration of technology, and increased student involvement as essential steps to keep the society vibrant and relevant.
A Legacy of Service
Beyond her work with the HOHS, Karla’s dedication to community extends to her church, where she volunteers her time and talents. Her commitment to serving alongside friends and family for causes she is passionate about highlights her steadfast belief in the power of community. Karla’s story is one of stewardship, love, and a profound connection to Hilliard’s heritage. Her contributions to the HOHS and the broader community continue to inspire, ensuring that Hilliard’s history remains alive and celebrated for generations to come.
Submitted by Bob Eggerichs
