Longtime WFLO Radio Voice and Author Passes Peacefully

FARMVILLE – Francis Wood, the longtime voice at WFLO passed away on August 21. Wood was diagnosed with ALS in February and reportedly passed away peacefully surrounded by his family.

Wood, who was also a noted book author, started his radio career at 17 years old. This career lasted to New Year’s Eve 2021 when Francis signed off from the airwaves for good following a 52 year run.

Wood received many honors during his career and was also an integral part of many organizations. He became a member of the Virginia Association of Broadcasters (VAB) family where he served as president. He was awarded the prestigious C.T. Lucy award given by the VAB and became a lifetime member. The WFLO/AM broadcast studio was named in his honor. He was also a member of the Board of Directors at Centra Southside Community Hospital and served on the Board of Directors at the Moton Museum. 

He established the Tip-of-the-Moon Publishing Company with his wife, where he won many awards and was named Reader’s Choice by the Farmville Herald for three straight years. 

WFLO officials stated, “You have meant so much to so many people – love, grace, kindness and integrity are all words that are used to describe your beautiful soul. Thank you for your stories, your presence and your heart!”