of Benton, AR

November 9, 1940 - July 14, 2020

John Ford Goodman, 79, of Bauxite, passed away Tuesday, July 14, 2020. He was born November 09, 1940 in Amory, Mississippi to the late Ford and Irma Goodman.

John loved everything about the outdoors, whether that be fishing or working on construction projects around his house. He was a graduate of East Nashville High School and received his Bachelor of Science in Economics from The University of Southern Mississippi. Much of John's life was characterized by service. This way of life began early, as he served in the United States Army as a young man. He also found an outlet for service in the church. Every Wednesday night for as long as his loved ones remember, he delivered meals from First Baptist Church to shut-ins throughout Saline County. He was also an active member of Sunshine Circle.

On Sundays, John attended First Baptist Church, where he was both an usher and 2nd grade Sunday School teacher. Many from his class remember him as ''Papa John'', and he had a positive impact on a great number of children throughout his 25+ years of teaching. In his most recent years, he served his community proudly as Bauxite City Councilman. After a life of generosity and compassion, he leaves behind a legacy of humility and service in our community.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Nancy Byrum Goodman; a son, Carter Goodman, and his wife, Ashley Goodman, of Jacksonville, Florida; a daughter, Alethea Simpson, and her husband, John Simpson, of Bauxite; a brother, Paul Goodman, of Tennessee; 8 grandchildren, Lauren Goodman, Caron Ellis, Abigail Goodman, Emma Comer, and John Ford Goodman II all of Jacksonville, Florida, Justin Simpson of Wichita Falls, Texas, Bayleigh Simpson and Hayden Simpson of Bauxite; four great grandchildren, Lily Ellis, Jude Ellis, and Shiloh Ellis of Jacksonville, Florida, Emily Simpson of Wichita Falls, Texas; nieces and nephews, along with many friends.

Visitation will be Friday, July 17th, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. with a Memorial Service to follow at 11:00 a.m. These will be held at First Baptist Church in Benton in Selph Hall, 211 South Market, Benton, AR. Following the State of Arkansas COVID-19 guidelines: masks will be provided, and social distancing will be maintained.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Benton Children's Ministry at 211 South Market, Benton, AR 72015.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Ballard Funeral Home
306 S. Main
Benton, AR  72015
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com