Ralph "Woody" Wayne Wood

Ralph Wayne Wood, lovingly known as “Woody,” longtime Nowata resident, passed away Sunday, December 29, 2024, at home, surrounded by family. He was born on February 1, 1946, in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma to Preston and Marie (Finks) Wood. 

Woody grew up in Nowata and attended Nowata Public Schools through the 11th grade when he entered the U. S. Army and served as a Petroleum Supply Specialist during the Vietnam War. Woody earned the National Defense Service Medal and was a Rifle Expert. 

After his time in the Army, Woody worked for many years as an Oil Rig Tester throughout the area. He was known as a hard worker and was very trustworthy. In addition to his vocation, Woody loved to farm and raise cattle. He always enjoyed helping others, even if it was giving some advice. 

Woody is survived by his wife, Eileen, of the home; children, Tammy Prather (Bobby) of Martinsville, Indiana, Dianna Hartness (Mike) of Muskegon, Michigan, Wayne Lee Wood (Eliesha Fink) of Nowata; step children, Steve Northrup (Kathy) of Logansport, Indiana, and JoMyla White (Tim) of Spearsville, Indiana; numerous grandchildren; sister, Virginia Illingsworth of Tulsa, Oklahoma; and a host of friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Louis Wood; and sister, JoHelen Dodson. 

A Celebration of Life will be held Tuesday, January 7, 2024, in the Benjamin Funeral Service Chapel at 2:00 P.M. The US Army Funeral Honors Detail will render military honors. Online condolences may be made at www.honoringmemoriesnowata.com or on the funeral home Facebook page. Arrangements are in the care of Benjamin Funeral Service of Nowata.