James Russell Wood

James Russell. Wood, 80, of Springdale, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 24, 2025, at Circle of Life Hospice in Springdale. Born on December 16, 1944, in Fayetteville, Arkansas, to Russell Arnold Wood and Helen Couch Wood, Russell lived a full and spirited life as a lifelong resident of Northwest Arkansas.
A man of many talents and passions, Russell owned and operated Woods Radio and TV and ARKO Telephone for decades, retiring in 2005 after a successful career. He later brought his energy and expertise to real estate with Lindsey and Associates. Known for his love of the outdoors and friendly competition, Russell was an avid golfer who rarely missed a day on the course. He treasured golf trips and tournaments, as well as motorcycle and dirt bike racing in his younger years. His adventurous spirit also took him to horse races, casinos, and travels far and wide. A faithful member of Salem Lutheran Church and the Springdale Country Club where he was a member of the Noon Golfing Group, he cherished lively card games with friends and the community they built. A proud 1963 graduate of Springdale High School, Russell's roots ran deep in the region he called home.
He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Arnold and Helen Wood.
Left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife, Mary Ann Wood, of the home to whom he was married for 42 years; his aunt, Charlene Barron of Springdale; his sister, Barbara Chaffin, and her husband, Mike; his brother, Windell Wood, and his wife, Bonnie, of Fayetteville; and a wide circle of nieces and nephews: Brian and Susan Chaffin of Longview, Texas, Ben Wood and his wife, Kim, and Morgan House and husband Evan. Russell's legacy continues through his children, Melissa Hutchens (and her fiancé, Mark) of Springdale, and Michael Hutchens; his grandchildren, Nicholas Hutchens, Triston (Alex) Pando, August Pando, and Shayla Holder; and several great-grandchildren and several great-nieces and nephews.
A memorial service celebrating Russell's life will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Salem Lutheran Church in Springdale, officiated by Pastor Adam Gless and Pastor Brandon Martin. A visitation will begin at 10 a.m. at the church, offering a chance for loved ones to gather and share memories.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Russell's name to Circle of Life Hospice at 901 Jones Rd, Salem Lutheran Church at 1800 W Emma Ave, or Springdale Animal Shelter at 1549 E Don Tyson Pkwy.
Online condolences may be left at www.siscofuneral.com