Ronald H. Woods, 82, was welcomed home to Heaven on May 11, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. He was reunited with his parents, Herbert and Bernice Woods; his son, Shane Reaves; and his baby daughter, Ashley Woods.
Born in El Dorado, Arkansas in 1942, Ronnie graduated from El Dorado High School in 1961, where he was voted Most Handsome and Mr. EHS. A standout athlete, he was a proud member of the 1958 state champion Wildcat Football team. His achievements earned him lifelong friendships, many of which he maintained throughout his life.
Ronnie went on to attend the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and Ouachita Baptist University before returning to El Dorado to join his father in the family real estate development business. He found his true calling in the outdoors, raising Santa Gertrudis cattle on the family farm in El Dorado and dairy cattle on a farm in Missouri. He was honored to be named Young Farmer of the Year.
One of Ronnie's proudest accomplishments was fatherhood. His love for his children and grandchildren knew no bounds, and he was always eager to create lasting memories. His sense of humor was infectious, and he imparted wisdom and life lessons to those he loved. His legacy will live on for generations to come.
Ronnie was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church, where he was a Sunday school teacher and participated in numerous mission trips. He is a member of Gideons International.
With a passion for adventure and travel, Ronnie became a private pilot, which allowed him to explore the world from a different perspective. He and his family enjoyed summers in a cabin he built in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado and at the family lake house on Lake Hamilton, where they shared many cherished moments together.
Ronnie is survived by the love of his life and bride of 45 years, Beth, and their children: Brooke Woods Bagwell (Barry), Don Johnson (Kari), and Ross Woods (Cristen). He is also survived by his siblings, Sammye Lee Woods, John Allen Woods and Elisabeth Woods Grant. His grandchildren—Katy Mangrum, Rebecca Mangrum, Aidan Johnson, Avery Johnson, Garrett Johnson, Barrett Woods, and Bristol Woods—will miss his adventurous spirit and his willingness to embrace life’s journey at a moment’s notice. Additionally, Ronnie leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will carry on his legacy.
The family would also like to extend sincere love and appreciation for his dedicated care-givers: Brenda, Marquita, Dee-Dee and Ravonda.
Visitation will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, May 15, 2025 in Young’s Chapel. Funeral services will begin at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Clark Whitney and Rev. Tommy Kimball officiating. Burial will follow at Arlington Memorial Park under the direction of Young’s Funeral Directors.
Memorials may be made to the Gideons International, P.O. Box 10562, El Dorado, AR 71731, or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
