Ralph 'Sonny' Waldo Wood Jr., 83, Passes Away in Flippin

The longtime Missouri Pacific Railroad employee and Flippin First Baptist Church member is remembered for his passion for firearms and fishing.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Ralph 'Sonny' Waldo Wood Jr., an 83-year-old resident of Flippin, Arkansas, passed away peacefully at his home on February 19, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Gassville, Arkansas in 1942, Wood dedicated many years of service to the Missouri Pacific Railroad as a brakeman and conductor. He was a faithful member of Flippin First Baptist Church and the Yellville Masonic Lodge, and had a deep passion for firearms, reloading, shooting, and repairing guns, as well as fishing.

Why it matters

Wood's passing marks the end of an era for the Flippin community, as he was a lifelong resident known for his easygoing nature and leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met. His dedication to the railroad industry and involvement in local organizations highlight the importance of community figures in small towns.

The details

Wood is survived by his son Monte (Tammy) Wood, daughter Tina Wood, sister Catherine Bloom, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother W.J. Wood, and sister Betty Rose. Visitation and funeral services will be held at Roller-Burns Funeral Home and Flippin First Baptist Church, respectively, with interment at Flippin Cemetery.

  • Wood passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
  • Visitation will be held on Monday, February 23, 2026, from 5:00-7:00 p.m.
  • Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

The players

Ralph 'Sonny' Waldo Wood Jr.

An 83-year-old resident of Flippin, Arkansas, who dedicated many years of service to the Missouri Pacific Railroad as a brakeman and conductor, and was a faithful member of Flippin First Baptist Church and the Yellville Masonic Lodge.

Monte (Tammy) Wood

Wood's son, who resides in Yellville, Arkansas.

Tina Wood

Wood's daughter, who resides in Flippin, Arkansas.

Catherine Bloom

Wood's sister.

Flippin First Baptist Church

The church where Wood was a faithful member.

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The takeaway

Wood's passing marks the end of an era for the close-knit Flippin community, as he was a beloved figure known for his dedication to his family, faith, and local organizations. His legacy will continue to inspire others in the town to follow in his footsteps of community involvement and leaving a positive impact on those around them.