Elmer Wayne Wood, 96, of Benton, passed away peacefully at his home with family at his side on March 2, 2024. He was born on March 11, 1927, to Nathaniel and Annalee (Whybrew) Wood in Byers, Kansas. After living and farming in Kansas and Colorado, at the age of 12, they moved to NW Arkansas to land bought sight unseen by his dad from a newspaper ad, and he called Arkansas home after that. After graduating from Elkins High School, he proudly served his country in WWII in the US Army. After the war, he went to trade school in Chicago to become a mechanic and returned to Little Rock upon completion. He worked at several automotive shops, including a long stint at 555. While working there, he met and married his lifetime love, Vinita Trager. After retiring as a mechanic, he found a new career in sales and formed El Way Sales Company. In 1971, he moved his family to the Salem community, where he began his lawn service company in Benton. Well known for his honesty and integrity, he developed numerous friendships. Elmer was a patriot who loved God, his family, and his country, and he loved seeing the flags fly on our downtown streets. He was truly part of the Greatest Generation who ran his race well to the end.

He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Vinita, and three sons Steve (Mary) of Nimrod, Kenny, and Darrell (Nicole) of Benton. Five grandchildren: Rachel (Matt), Rebecca, Caleb, Sarah (Dustin), and Ben (Kaitlin). Four great-grandchildren: Eleanor, Oliver, Bennett, and Myla. Two nephews, Dale (Gina) and David (Laura), and a wonderful sister-in-law, Mary Louise Chittenden. A special thanks go to his long-time caregivers, Jo Ellen Dunn, Kristin Wright, and Susie McGuyver.

Visitation will be at Ashby Funeral Home on Friday, March 8th, at 9 am, with services immediately following at 10 am.

Online obit at ashbyfuneralhome.com