John Wayne Sooter

John Wayne Sooter, 78, of Bentonville, passed away at Circle of Life in Bentonville on April 4, 2026.

He was born July 14, 1947 in Bentonville to John Berry Sooter and Ozell Cash Sooter. John graduated from Bentonville High School in 1965 and attended the University of Arkansas where he earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Accounting and was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity.

After graduating from the U of A, he briefly worked for Standard Oil, followed by a career working in internal audit and risk benefits management for Walmart and later owned an insurance and marketing business for many years until retirement.

John was retired from the Arkansas Army National Guard, 142nd Field Artillery Brigade where he was a Joint Fire Support Specialist.

He enjoyed time on his houseboat at Beaver Lake, fishing trips on the White River and a good country music concert. He also enjoyed attending Razorback football and basketball games and traveling to SEC tournaments and NCAA tournaments throughout the years.

He cherished spending time with his family and took great joy in his children and grandchildren. He was always up for a nice dinner out; especially when it meant sharing laughter and making memories with those he loved.

John is preceded in death by his father, John Berry Sooter. He is survived by his mother, Ozell Sooter of Bentonville, a son, Chris Sooter (Wendy) of Bentonville, two grandsons Blake Sooter (Ashlynn) of Fayetteville and Sam Sooter of Bentonville; two daughters, Jordan Sooter of Eureka Springs and Jamie Kelly (Matt) of Bentonville and grandchildren Landon Kelly and Camryn Kelly. He is also survived by his aunt Linda Rush and several cousins.

Services will be held on Wednesday, April 8th at 11:30 am at Bentonville Community Church of the Nazarene in Bentonville, Arkansas, with Randy Featherston officiating. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Circle of Life Hospice.