Community Leader, Former Councilmember, Passes Away Unexpectedly

JONESBORO, Ark. – One of Jonesboro’s most active community leaders has passed away suddenly, leaving family, friends, and those who knew him in mourning.

Rennell Woods died suddenly overnight, social media posts revealed. An outpouring of positivity and love from those who knew him was shared across Facebook on Tuesday morning, likely continuing into the week.

Woods spent a decade as the director of City Youth Ministries, from 2003 to 2013. He also served on the Jonesboro City Council from 2009 through 2016.

Woods is survived by his wife and three sons, K8 News reports.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Jonesboro Mayor Harold Copenhaver issued a statement mourning the loss of Woods.

“I was deeply saddened to learn about Rennell Woods’ passing this morning. Rennell was a man of strong faith, an advocate, an advisor and a dear friend to me and many neighbors in our community.

As both a community leader and City Council member his focus was improving the lives of the youth in our city with dedication and love. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched. I ask that everyone keep the Woods family in their thoughts and prayers and remember all that he contributed to our community.”

Chairman of the Jonesboro Advertising & Promotions Commission Jerry Morgan issued a statement on Woods’ passing to NEA Report, as well.

“After I joined the Advertising and Promotions Commission, I became acquainted with Rennell. He had served in the same role and also as a City Councilman. He was a true advocate for the youth and many of the underserved areas of our community. He lived and preached it every single day. I hope our city can continue to honor his legacy with the continued passion and ideas he has dreamed to make this a better place. May God watch over his family in these difficult times.”

Former Jonesboro Mayor Harold Perrin told JonesboroRightNow.com, “Rennell was a dear friend of mine. I’ve known him for many years. He was a fine Christian man, a family man. He was on City Council for many years and always worked on projects that would help Jonesboro and our youth. I am certainly going to miss him.”

This story will be updated with additional quotes and information. Our condolences are with the family and friends of Rennell. – SM