Biography:

Brad H. Wooley, 69, passed away January 7, 2026. He was born May 26, 1956, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, to B.L. Wooley and Betty Wooley (now Higby).

Brad was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose life was defined by integrity, hard work, and quiet dedication. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rita Wooley; his father, B.L. Wooley; and his younger brother, Brian Wooley.

He is survived by his mother, Betty Higby; his sister, Karan Flora (Steve); his two children, Elizabeth Wooley (James Morgan) and Brad Wooley (Lindsey); and his two grandsons, Jack and Waylon Wooley, whom he adored. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews who held a special place in his heart.

A second-generation auctioneer, Brad dedicated nearly five decades to the auction industry, continuing and expanding the legacy his father started. He joined Wooley Auctioneers & Associates in 1975. Over the years, Brad helped elevate the firm into one of the most respected names in the industry, known for professionalism, ethics, and trust.

Brad’s leadership extended far beyond his own company. He served on the Board of Directors of the National Auctioneers Association and was President of the National Auctioneers License Law Officials Association. In 1996, Brad was appointed to the Arkansas Auctioneers Licensing Board, where he served nearly 20 years, including a decade as Chairman. During his tenure, Brad was instrumental in shaping licensing and ethical practices statewide.

Brad found joy in simple pleasures. He loved to fish and treasured time spent on his party barge, trolling the Little Maumelle and watching the sun set over the Arkansas River.

Brad made many friends throughout his life and especially cherished the lifelong friendships from his years at Hall High School—their annual campouts were among the highlights of his year.

Brad H. Wooley will be remembered for his leadership, his loyalty to family and friends, and his unwavering commitment to doing things the right way. His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the industry he helped shape, and the many lives he touched along the way.

Memorial gifts may be made in Brad’s honor to the National Auction Foundation, 8880 Ballentine Street, Overland Park, Kansas 66214, or to Second Presbyterian Church, Little Rock, Arkansas.

A service celebrating Brad's life will be held at Second Presbyterian Church, Little Rock, Arkansas on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at 10 AM. Arrangements are under the direction of RuebelFuneralHome.com