Keo Woolford has Passed Away

The actor, Keo Woolford has passed away at the age of 49-years-old from complications after suffering a stroke. His niece, Raeceen Woolford Satele found her uncle collapsed in his house. Woolford died three days after he was taken to the hospital.

Woolford was most recognized for his role as Detective James Chang from the hit CBS television show, “Hawaii Five-O.” Not to mention his other roles in movies, from “Godzilla” to “Act of Valor”.

He was a native of Hawaii, born in Honolulu and raised by his adopted parents Vicki and Dwight Woolford. Woolford's first name, Keo, is pronounced – like ‘O.K’ but backward.

After graduating from St.Louis High School he started his acting career way back in the 1990s. He has appeared in many television, film and stage roles over the years in Los Angeles, New York and London, including the role of King of Siam in “The King and I”.

Mr. Woolford's work often highlighted his roots and culture. In the solo play “I Land,” which he both wrote and performed he explored his heritage through hula dance. To him, hula is much more than just a Hawaiian dance it is a part of his identity.

The name Keo can be either masculine or feminine and is the Hawaiian version of Joe, which is the short form of Joseph. The masculine name Joseph is the Latin version of the Greek name Ioseph that is taken from the Hebrew name Yosef that means “he will add”.