Jackie “Jack” Rudolph Gooding, age 77, passed from this life on Tuesday, April 9, 2024 at his home, while surrounded by his loving family.
Jack was born January 2, 1947 in Leesburg, Florida. He spent his childhood in South Carolina and then moved back to Jacksonville, Florida before joining the U.S. Army in 1964. Jack proudly served four years in the Army and served two tours to Vietnam. Jack was proud to be part of the 101st Airborne Division (Screaming Eagles). He met his wife, Kathryn, in 1972 and married in 1973, spending 51 blissful years together of traveling, exploring, loving each other and growing a beautiful family. Jack went on to become a master underwater diver including work in underwater welding and construction and volunteer rescue diving. He was also a firefighter and superintendent of the City of Mulberry water department for more than 10 years. Along with being very proud of his service for his country and his work, Jack loved diving, fishing and spending time with his family.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Abe Gooding and Reba Hook. He is survived by his loving wife, Kathryn; sons, Jack Gooding of Bartow, Florida, and John Gooding of Alford, Florida; daughter, Ocia Gooding of Alford, Florida; sister, Joann Medlin and husband, Tom, of Camden, South Carolina; brother, Larry Gooding and wife, Gwin of Whigham, Georgia; grandchildren, Madison, Hannah, Jackson and Liam; along with a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.
Graveside services will be 1 P.M. EST Friday, May 10, 2024 in the Tallahassee National Cemetery with military honors provided by the U.S. Army Honor Guard. Marianna Chapel Funeral Home will be directing.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org or by calling 855-448-3997.
Condolences may be made online at www.mariannachapelfh.com
