Richard King

Richard “Woody” H. King, Jr., 82, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2026, in New Albany, Ohio. A beloved husband, brother, friend, and teammate, Woody lived a life marked by friendship, loyalty, and a passion for sports, horses, and good times.

Born in 1943 in Dayton, Ohio, Woody spent most of his youth on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, where he was the fourth generation of Winifred Ouderkirk King’s family to grow up in the islands. He spent countless hours playing in the wide-open fields of Kailua with teams such as the Foodland Braves and Kailua Pop Warner, and along its beaches. It was there that he developed a lifelong love of horses and riding.

In high school, Woody played on what many consider “one of the best football teams in island history”—the 1961 Punahou team that went on to win the State Championship. His athletic talents carried him to the University of Arizona, where he proudly served as Captain of the football team in 1966 and was later selected to play in the 1967 Hula Bowl.

Woody went on to a pioneering career in the travel and hospitality industry, working with American Airlines, Marriott, and several major hotel chains. In the early 2000s, he served as National Sales Vice President of the Columbus Convention Center, helping grow that Columbus landmark from a modest group of meeting rooms into one of the nation’s leading convention destinations.

Throughout his life, Woody carried with him a deep love of sports, teamwork, and the outdoors. He was happiest on horseback, at a game, or sharing stories with family and friends. Known for his warm smile and generous spirit, he brought laughter and camaraderie to everyone around him.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda King; his parents, Richard H. King, Sr. and Winifred Ouderkirk King; and his siblings Karen King Hutchinson, Randy King, Jan King Kunert, and Kevin King. He is survived by his sister Codie King; his brother Jeff King (Chris); and extended family members who will forever cherish his memory.

Woody will be laid to rest in the Ouderkirk/King family plot at Oahu Cemetery in Honolulu, Hawaii. A memorial gathering will be held there at a later date.

The family wishes to thank friends near and far who have shared their love and memories of Woody.