December 2, 1931 – June 24, 2026

Walter R. Woods passed away peacefully at his home in Naperville, Illinois, on June 24, 2026, at the age of 94. Born on December 2, 1931, in Grant, Virginia, Walter lived a life marked by integrity, dignity, kindness, and grace.

As a young boy growing up on the family farm in Grant, Virginia, Walter developed a lifelong love of agriculture that would shape the course of his life. He pursued that passion by earning both a master's degree from the University of Kentucky and a Ph.D. from Oklahoma State University in Animal Nutrition and Agricultural Sciences.

In September 1953, Walter married the love of his life, Jacqulyn “Jackie” R. Woods. Together they shared 57 wonderful years of marriage and raised two children, Diana Woods Whitney and Neal R. Woods. Walter and Jackie were true partners in every sense. They embraced each new chapter side by side, supporting one another, serving their communities, traveling the world, welcoming family and friends into their home, and finding joy in life's everyday moments.

Family was at the center of Walter's life. He was a devoted father and a proud grandfather who treasured every opportunity to spend time with his children and grandchildren, creating countless cherished memories together. Walter always showed up. Whether offering thoughtful advice, lending a helping hand, cheering on life's milestones, or simply being present, his family knew they could always count on him. He encouraged those he loved to work hard, think for themselves, and become the very best versions of themselves. His quick wit, wonderful sense of humor, and the stories he loved to share brought joy and laughter to family gatherings and made every visit something to look forward to.

Walter and Jackie's journey together took them to Lexington, Kentucky; Stillwater, Oklahoma; Ames, Iowa; and Lincoln, Nebraska. Along the way, Walter served as Department Head of Animal Science at Purdue University, Dean of Agriculture at Kansas State University, and later with the United States Department of Agriculture in Washington, D.C. Through his leadership, teaching, and research, he mentored generations of students and professionals while helping advance agricultural science and livestock production, benefiting communities around the world.

After retiring to Roanoke, Virginia, Walter became an active volunteer with Habitat for Humanity. He found great purpose in helping build homes for families who otherwise might never have had the opportunity to own one. He continued building alongside fellow volunteers for more than 20 years, until the age of 92. Walter was also an avid reader, a talented woodworker, and enjoyed traveling with family and friends.

Following the loss of Jackie and Neal, Walter moved to Naperville, Il in 2016 to be closer to Diana and his grandchildren. Alongside his faithful dog, Buttons, he quickly became a familiar face in the neighborhood. His warm smile, genuine kindness, and gift for conversation made him a friend to everyone he met. He loved sharing stories and laughter, was always ready with a helping hand, and found great joy in being close to his family.

Walter was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jacqulyn “Jackie” R. Woods; his cherished son, Neal R. Woods; his parents, John W. Woods and Hazel G. Woods; his brother, John W. Woods; and his sister, Sally Woods.

He is survived by his loving daughter, Diana Woods Whitney, and son-in-law, Bob Whitney; his cherished grandchildren, Alexandra Pastore, Christian Pastore, Sedona Whitney, and Morgan Richardson and her husband, Phillip Richardson; his beloved brother, Harold Woods; and many loving nieces and nephews.

Walter will be laid to rest at Memory Gardens Cemetery in Madison, West Virginia, with his beloved wife, Jackie, and son, Neal.

In lieu of flowers, should you wish to make a donation in memory of Walter, please consider supporting Habitat for Humanity. www.habitat-roanoke.org