of Little Rock, AR
November 17, 1947 - March 10, 2025
Wayne Floyd Woods was born November 17, 1947 and raised in Dumas by his father, Floyd Woods; stepfather, Mack Burns and mother, Murlene Woods Burns. He and his older brother, Shelby were active in high school sports and Wayne was recognized as an All-American football player at Dumas High. He received an athletic scholarship to attend the University of Arkansas, but a water-skiing accident curtailed his Razorback career.
Following college, Wayne joined Shelby in the advertising business, now known as the Woods Brothers Agency. Driving an average of 75,000 miles a year in the early days cultivating clients across the state, Wayne helped a number of tourism businesses get off the ground. Soon, the agency represented dozens of these small operations which eventually grew into the foundation of the state's tourism economy.
By the time, the Woods Brothers Agency merged with the Cranford Johnson Robinson firm, the agency had over 500 tourism clients. The new Cranford Johnson Robinson Woods agency was among the largest advertising firms headquartered in the mid-South.
Wayne was instrumental in getting the state's regional tourism promotion organizations established, resulting in a dozen cooperative marketing bodies statewide, allowing private operators to pool their resources and expand their impact. Many of these folks became fast friends and expected him to be their host when they visited Little Rock. He didn't fail them.
Wayne had a few other things he was interested in besides tourism. In the early 1970s, he became a licensed hot-air balloon pilot, taking his ''Arkansas Is A Natural'' balloon around the world, to include trips to the Albuquerque Balloon Festival, Australia and countless Arkansas festivals. He also liked the water, owning the motor-yacht ''Southwind'' which was a fixture on the Arkansas River. Wayne loved Lake Ouachita and spent hours enjoying its main channel and quiet coves. In addition, Wayne owned an over-powered cigarette boat that regularly terrified even his closest friends. He was known for his generosity, making the boats and balloon available for good causes across the state.
Wayne loved organizing and participating in flotillas of all kinds. He worked closely with the US Army Corps of Engineers, helping promote the river for recreation, economic development and commercial barge traffic. Recognizing his contributions, the Little Rock District of the Corps officially declared the south bank of the river in front of the home where Wayne, his wife Linda and their son, Kyzer lived for 40 years, the ''Wayne Woods Landing''.
His favorite flotilla of all times and the one that gave him the greatest satisfaction was loading his boat with friends and state leaders to promote passage of Amendment 75, also known as the 1/8 cent Conservation Amendment. This successful event included the entire length of the Arkansas River in the state and lasted a week with numerous stops and overnight stays at key communities along the route. He would tell anyone that would listen that the amendment is making our state parks system among the best in the nation, our hunting and fishing world-class and our history and heritage a source of pride for our citizens. This effort brought together a strong coalition of state agency staffs, legislators, an army of citizens and commissioners representing State Parks, Game & Fish, Heritage and Keep Arkansas Beautiful. At the flotilla's conclusion, a reception was scheduled for Wayne's riverside house. Given the thick fog and being hardly able to even find the house, everybody on shore worried about the boats yet to arrive, one of which held Governor Mike Huckabee.
Wayne received about every honor given by the tourism industry, including Person of the Year and Hall of Fame. He was active in the Arkansas Hospitality Association and served as president of the Arkansas Travel Council. He was also inducted into the Southwest Advertising Hall of Fame along with his brother for outstanding contributions to the advertising industry. He retired as former Chairman and CEO of CJRW.
Wayne's wife Linda and son, Kyzer, along with his family meant everything to him, but his friends were close behind. He had a good heart and was always the life and organizer of the party. Wayne would like to give special thanks to Dr. Dean Kumpuris for his many years of friendship and medical care and for his willingness to help others in need.
Wayne always lived and loved this maritime quote:
''Until next time,
May there always be water under your boat,
May she always be seaworthy, ever afloat,
May the bilge pump be certain to work day and night,
May the compass and charts always show the safe way,
May you find gentle harbor as every day ends,
May you lower your anchor amidst peace and good friends.''
He was preceded in death by father, Floyd Woods; mother, Murlene Woods Burns; stepfather, Mack Burns and is survived by wife, Linda; son, Kyzer; sister, Floye Ann; brother, Shelby; niece, Casey Woods Flores amd nephews, Chance, Michael and Nick Tison.
Wayne asked that his ashes be spread over the Arkansas River in front of his beloved home. A memorial service will be planned and announced in the spring for that to happen. For those who understand and appreciate the importance of tourism to our small, wonderful and beautiful state, memorials may be sent to the Arkansas Tourism Development Foundation; 300 Main Street; Little Rock, AR 72201.
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37 Condolence(s)
Dennis Cossey
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
I just learned about Wayne's passing from the excellent article that appeared in today's Arkansas Business. My sincerest condolence, Shelby. We all go back a long way (some 50 years). Wayne's (and your) legacy will shine on. Rest in peace my friend.
John R Volok
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
My deepest sympathy to Linda and the family. Wayne and I had a friendship dating back in the late 70's. After I moved to Hot Spring Village 10 years ago. About twice a month I would meet with him for lunch at the Rose. We had great conversations about politics, Arkansas sports, boats and old times through the years. He was a great friend, and he will be missed. Rest in peace.
David Hargis
Monday, March 24, 2025
I go back to high school athletics, different teams, and learning on the field that Wayne hit harder than expected. Then we both were scholarship athletes with the Arkansas Razorbacks, but I then learned one night that Wayne had crashed into a party barge while water skiing. He would have unquestionably been an all-star running back — but then he turned to his career with his brother and excelled at that the rest of his life. He was an extraordinary person.
Roger Tremblay
Monday, March 24, 2025
In my many years in the magazine business Wayne was one of the best people I ever met. He and Shelby made this Yankee feel welcome in Arkansas. R.I.P. my good friend.
Ray Reed
Thursday, March 20, 2025
Learning of this news means the world is bit dimmer, and that the State of Arkansas has lost a native son that loved his home with all of his heart and soul. He also loved life, and lived to his fullest each and every day. I appreciated his warm welcome to a Texan, and all the good work we did together was due to his desire to bring people to The Natural State so they could love it as much as did he.
John Fuller Cross, Sr.
Monday, March 17, 2025
March 17, 2025
I, John Fuller Cross, from Eureka Springs, Arkansas, with CS Bank, coming to work every day for 69 years, knew Wayne Woods very well, and was sorry to hear of his passing.
I, too, remember Wayne joining Shelby in the advertising business, now known as the Woods Brothers Agency, and when they merged with the Cranford Johnson Robinson firm, and had over 500 tourism clients. They were the best in the business, and I have many cards and letters in my files from them, both with the business and after they retired.
Please see that Shelby gets a copy of this correspondence, and tell him hello for me, and to come see us in Eureka Springs, as we are still in the tourism business, as you probably know, and always will be.
John Fuller Cross, Sr.
Robert W Swann
Monday, March 17, 2025
Was a privilege to work alongside Wayne and his team at CJRW presenting Arkansas as a great destination to explore. Master of the Game he was ! My condolences to his family ! Sure gonna miss his big personality and so much enthusiasm !
Brett Morgan
Monday, March 17, 2025
RIP Mr Wayne!! You were always kind , caring and nothing but a gentleman!!!
Barb Beatty
Sunday, March 16, 2025
My deepest sympathy your friend,Barb Beatty
Linda Marshall Strickland
Sunday, March 16, 2025
Linda and Kyzer I’m so sorry for your loss. Linda, I think of you and Wayne often. When I think of my brother,Bill Kyzer, you and Wayne are the next thought. Our family was always so grateful for you guys taking care of him as he battled cancer.
I know that Wayne will be missed by so many. He had such a big heart and helped so many people. It was such a privilege to know him and you. God bless you, Kyzer and all of your family during this very difficult time.
Dick Halsell
Sunday, March 16, 2025
Thinking of you. Wayne and my brother were best friends growing up in Dumas.
Billie Beardsley
Sunday, March 16, 2025
Shelby lifting you and your family up in prayer.
Billie
Mickey Freeman
Sunday, March 16, 2025
My first memory of Wayne was playing tackle chase on the old Dumas Elementary School playground. He was a force then and continued throughout his life. He will be missed. RIP good buddy.
Andrew and Lady M. Pickens
Saturday, March 15, 2025
We have known Wayne since hometown school days--loved his Mother and Mack
He will be missed by All! Rest in Peace dear friend!!
Linda Love
Friday, March 14, 2025
A very successful business man but more importantly a great human being. Kind, caring and there when needed. Family first. We lost a bright light. God Bless
Barbara Lyle
Thursday, March 13, 2025
Linda and Kyzer, I am so sorry for your loss. Wayne was such a great guy and so much fun to spend time with. We all had so many great times on the river making memories I will hold close always. I will keep you both in my prayers. Barbara Lyle
Craig McBroome
Thursday, March 13, 2025
Those of us having the pleasure of knowing Wayne Woods knew him for his larger-than-life personality, his love of family, his compassion for others, and his love for the state of Arkansas and its natural resources. During McBroome gatherings throughout the years, Wayne and Shelby Woods worked tirelessly and unselfishly making sure that family members had the most joyous occasion possible. It was in their DNA. Aunt Murlene (Wayne, Shelby’s, and Floye Ann’s Mom) was sort of the matriarch of the McBroome clan. The last time I saw Wayne was at the Ozark Folk Center. He was there attending a meeting with Arkansas State Parks and I was there in an official capacity with my employer. Typical of Wayne Woods, he picked me out of the crowd and told me what a good man I was in front of all that were present. He gave me many more accolades than what I felt I deserved. That was Wayne Woods in his truest form. I will miss you dear cousin.
Jeanne Burgess Hunkapiller
Thursday, March 13, 2025
Wayne holds a special place in my heart and life. I am grateful. My prayers and heartfelt condolences go to Linda and the family. God bless.
Patti Murphy Frazier
Wednesday, March 12, 2025
Shelby and family, I was so saddened to hear about Wayne. Wayne always bought a smile to everyone he was around. He, you, Daddy and the whole tourism committee were such close friends and brought lots of tourism to Arkansas. The team was also committed to preserving Arkansas history and even recruited new companies into Arkansas. Wayne saw the growth needed in Arkansas and went to work for that goal in a very happy and robust way which no one else could every do and no one will be able to fill his shoes. He was loved by so many, and he will be missed so much. Enjoy that last boat to meet your family and friends who you have not seen in a while. RIP my good friend.
Randy Machen
Wednesday, March 12, 2025
Knew Wayne for over 30 years. He always had a smile and fun to be around. Gave me boat advice several times over the years. Will miss him dearly
Lisa Wooten
Wednesday, March 12, 2025
Wayne & Shelby played a huge part in my exposure to the advertising services in Arkansas. I loved getting those huge "Wayne" hugs when he would see me. He had a large heart and cared so much for our beautiful state. We have all benefitted from his vision and passion. Sending my prayers to Shelby and the family!
Kitty Gray
Wednesday, March 12, 2025
My deepest sympathy for his family .. I knew Wayne from the days in the 80’s in Fairfield Bay with Parks & Tourism. When I looked up and saw his hot air, balloon, “Arkansas is a natural” flying over the lake with Sugarloaf Mountain behind. I just remember getting goosebumps for it was the most beautiful thing I have ever seen!
Nicole Boddington
Wednesday, March 12, 2025
We lost a great man, a true champion of Arkansas, a mentor and friend to many. I am proud to have known Wayne and to have been “raised” at CJRW, starting in 2007 at 24 years old. No one cared more about every corner of this state, every client, every tourism partner, every head on a bed, than Wayne. He helped build an entire industry based on building relationships—real, lasting bonds of friendship over a shared love of The Natural State. I’m lucky to have known him and to have learned from him. Thank you, WW. Rest easy. Float on.
Rick McBroome
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
He loved his family, and I loved him, fair sailing.
Lyle Cogbill
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
Wayne, was a great friend and mentor. He will be missed by everyone who knew him.
Tanya Smith
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
Our love to the family and all that loved Wayne. I looked forward to seeing him at the Arkansas Governor's Conference on Tourism. I also was grateful for Wayne and Linda and Captain Kyzer hosting Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge and 15 of our friends for a tour of the River on the yacht. We loved and appreciated the generosity. Top notch bar and catering by Linda, WOW. Every time we saw Wayne he made us feel like family . Blessing to Shelby, our prayers are with you during this difficult time .
Carl H Duncan
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
Jesus wrap this family in the blanket of your love peace and comfort!
Lisa McBroome
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
I was so blessed to be your cousin. You, Shelby and Aunt Sis allowed us to have the best memories growing up and later in life. I believe everyone in our huge family had the privilege to fly in your balloon. That's how I will remember you always. Fly height my precious cousin.
Joe David Rice
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
Wayne was a good man who made a big difference in The Natural State. He will be missed.
David Flake
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
He was an Arkansas tourism giant longer then the 30 years I was acquainted with him at ADPHT. He always greeted me with a smile and treated all of us at ADPHT well. May he rest in peace.
Joceil Woods
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
Wayne was an awesome cousin-in-law & to know Wayne was to love him. His legacy will live on forever & his family legacy was just as large as his loving & happy personality, RIP dear precious Wayne!!!
Jeananne Cooper Hawking
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
I am so very sad to hear about the passing of Wayne. He always had a smile and hug for me and loved telling me old stories about my late dad, Ray Cooper. No one promoted Arkansas better than Wayne and Shelby and Wayne will be missed by our state and the entire tourism community. I will miss his kind heart and huge smile. He was truly a good man, and my deepest sympathy to his family.
Renee Robison
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
Prayers of peace and comfort to Linda, Kyzer and entire Woods' family, CJRW family and friends. I have many fond memories of the flotilla and too many tourism conferences and meetings to count. He was a true ambassador of Arkansas. Continuing to promote Arkansas shall be your legacy for us to carry on without you. Renee
John G. Ralston
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
All our love and prayers with Linda, Shelby and the family. Wayne was a true friend and gentleman. I will never forget when I first met Wayne and Shelby more than 50 years ago after climbing those long two flights of stairs to the office of the Woods Brothers. Wayne never met a stranger and oh how he loved Arkansas and telling the world about it. The family is going to miss him, the State is going to miss him and his countless friends and tourism associates will miss him. His love and passion for this great State will continue to be seen by generations to come in every corner. I love you Wayne….smooth waters my friend.
Katherine Eldridge
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
Linda and Kyzer I’ll be praying for you both as you grieve the loss of Wayne. When Wayne came into Doe’s, he was always so kind and friendly to everyone. He will be missed by myself and my staff.
Katherine Eldridge
Joyce Tudor
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
Shelby and Family, I am so sorry to read about Wayne passing. You and Wayne are part of my best memories....when my husband, Eddie was on the State Publicity and Parks Commission.. So sorry.
Patt (Mrs. Dan) Gladden