Wayne Wood’s friends, cohorts and mischievous merry-prankster pals were out in costume regalia for what was dubbed “Wayne’s First 80 Years,” a birthday celebration of the many achievements Wood has made throughout his lifetime.
It was held at the Casket Factory, one of Wood’s favorite projects. The newly renovated Jacksonville History Center played host as patrons enjoyed fire breathers, cocktails, camaraderie, cake and a celebratory presentation of Wood’s journey on Saturday, Nov. 15.
From baby pics to optometric excellence, Wood has made his mark on Jacksonville through preservation, education, activism, advocacy, authoring and editing books and manuscripts – all while pursuing civic change and political campaign posturing to boot.
From advising the Carter campaign, to working with local legislators to re-imagine Hemming Park – now James Weldon Johnson Park – Wood has been pushing, pulling, tugging and acting on initiatives that move Jacksonville. And, since his formative years, has been a true renaissance man. Wood thanked his followers as they ‘flocked’ to the fearless leader, while they all ate cake and raised a toast to the next 80 years.
