Wayne was born January 24, 1948, in Shelton, Washington. His parents, Louis (Red) Woolsey and Marina (Brandt) Woolsey, moved to Kansas City, MO in 1952. Wayne attended North Platte Schools and earned numerous honors in football and track.
In 1966, he attended Northwest Missouri State University on a football scholarship and also played baseball. Wayne’s commitment, dedication and enthusiasm for the Bearcats was wholehearted and lifelong. During his distinguished 37-year career, he served as teacher, coach, and administrator in Iowa, Missouri and at NWMSU. He gained particular recognition for his impactful work as a statewide facilitator for the Missouri Leadership Academy.
Wayne is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Nancy (Jordheim) Woolsey, their devoted sons, Tucker and Katie (Scherer) Woolsey and Conrad Woolsey; treasured grandchildren, Westin (13), Colton (10), and Kenna (5); as well as his brother, Ron and Barb (Tiffin) Woolsey. Together they raised their family in Excelsior Springs where life revolved around football, wrestling, track, and baseball. Above all, Wayne cherished time spent with his sons.
Wayne is fondly remembered for his deep love of family, competitive nature, his passion for golf, track, and football, and his relentless drive. He would always plan the next project even before completing the last. His grandchildren brought love, laughter and joy to Wayne’s life as he followed them around fields, courts, and ball parks cheering and providing coaching pointers as only a grandpa can.
Wayne passed peacefully on December 26, 2025, after an unexpected battle with cancer. The family will receive friends Monday, January 5th at the Elms Hotel in Excelsior Springs, MO from 4:30-6:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life will follow at 6:00 p.m. Please feel free to wear Bearcat Green.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the “Woolsey Family Scholarship”; Office of University Advancement; Northwest Missouri State University; 800 University Dr.; Maryville, MO.
