FORT SMITH, Arkansas — The Fort Smith community is mourning the passing of Wayne Haver, the longtime former principal of Southside High School, whose decades of dedication to education left a lasting impression on generations of students, families, teachers, and staff.

Haver passed away on Sunday, September 6, 2026, following a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was 83 years old.

For nearly five decades, Haver remained closely connected to Southside High School, becoming one of the most recognizable and respected figures in the school community.

Wayne Haver’s Remarkable Career at Southside High School

Haver’s connection to Southside High School began in 1970, when he joined the faculty at the age of 27 as a business teacher.

Over the years, his career evolved from classroom instruction into school administration. He eventually became principal, a position he held for an extraordinary 36 years.

In total, Haver dedicated approximately 48 years of service to Southside High School before retiring from education.

His lengthy career allowed him to influence several generations of students. For many former students, Haver was more than a school administrator; he became a familiar and reassuring presence during some of the most formative years of their lives.

Remembered for His Connection With Students

Haver was known for making personal connections with students and for bringing energy and personality into the school environment.

One of the traditions associated with him was his habit of giving students morning fist bumps in the cafeteria, a simple gesture that became part of his recognizable presence around Southside.

He also supported school spirit in memorable ways, including playing the harmonica at pep rallies.

Those small moments helped distinguish Haver from the traditional image of a principal and contributed to the affection many students and families developed for him.

For members of the Southside Mavericks community, his personality, enthusiasm, and commitment became part of the school’s identity.

A Life Dedicated to Community Service

Haver’s commitment to Fort Smith did not end when he retired from education.

His desire to remain involved in the community eventually led him to enter local politics. In 2018, he filed as a candidate in the Fort Smith mayoral race, demonstrating his continued interest in serving the community he had spent much of his life supporting.

His involvement in education and civic life reflected a broader commitment to Fort Smith and its residents.

Fort Smith Remembers Wayne Haver

The news of Haver’s passing has brought sadness to former students, educators, families, colleagues, friends, and members of the wider Fort Smith community.

For those who knew him, his legacy will not be measured only by the number of years he served as an educator or administrator. It will also be remembered through the countless students he encouraged, the teachers he worked alongside, and the school traditions and memories that became part of his lasting connection to Southside High School.

After decades of service, Haver became an important part of the history of the Southside Mavericks community.

His influence will continue through former students and families who carry memories of the principal who greeted students in the cafeteria, encouraged school spirit, and devoted much of his life to education.

As Fort Smith mourns the loss of Wayne Haver, his years of dedication and service remain an enduring part of the community he helped shape.

Our deepest condolences go to Wayne Haver’s family, friends, former students, colleagues, and everyone who was touched by his life and work.

May his legacy of education, service, and commitment to the Fort Smith community continue to be remembered for generations to come.

May Wayne Haver rest in peace.