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.
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9 Condolence(s)
Delmar Lu Smith
Saturday, July 18, 2020
Nancy and family, so very sorry to learn of John’s death. My thoughts and prayers are sent to you.
Dennis Byrd
Friday, July 17, 2020
When John retired from teaching children at First Baptist, he became part of the Ushers and Greeters Class. He was enthusiastically received and contributed greatly to our Bible studies. John sat by me on the weeks someone else taught and often joined a few of us outside of the sanctuary when he was serving as an usher. He had such a big heart and was admired by all for his tireless energy and willingness to serve. He was well loved by all who knew him. He will be so missed!
Our prayers are with Nancy and his family!
Hollie Easterling
Friday, July 17, 2020
We are so sorry for your loss. May God comfort you and fill you with peace and loving memories.
Chad and Hollie Easterling and family
Blake and Ashley Denison
Thursday, July 16, 2020
Alethea,
We wanted to let you know we are so sorry for your loss. Your dad was amazing! His love for Christ was lived out in how he treated others. We are praying for you all!
Cathy Dawson
Thursday, July 16, 2020
So sorry for your loss, we loved Mr. John. Praying for the family.
Richard Mills
Thursday, July 16, 2020
Nancy and family,
Gabriell and I are so sorry for your loss but receive great comfort in knowing that this isn't a "goodbye" but is instead a "see you later". John's faith in the Lord Jesus Christ was real and it was obvious to all those he encountered. I really enjoyed being a church greeter with him!! We love you all.
David & Shirley Hunter
Wednesday, July 15, 2020
Condolences to Nancy, Carter and all family members. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Angie Cates
Wednesday, July 15, 2020
Alethea:
I'm so sorry for the loss of your dad. Prayers and love to all your family.
Angie Cates
Shannon Speights
Wednesday, July 15, 2020
Alethea,
I just want to send my love, prayers, and deepest sympathy to you and your family. I'm so sorry for your loss. I pray for God to hold you all in his arms, and you will feel the comfort that only comes from knowing our Lord and Savior.