Died Nov. 25, 2018 

On Nov. 25, 2018, William Richard Goode, "Bill," 90, went to be with his Heavenly Father, being freed from his body of death, now fully alive with his Creator. He passed peacefully surrounded by his family.

A part of the "Greatest Generation," Bill embodied its virtues. He lived through the deprivation of the Great Depression, quit high school in order to serve in the Marines toward the end of World War 2 and later served in the Coast Guard. Graduating from Lynchburg College in 1958 with a degree in music education, he taught chorus in Illinois and Florida and was voted teacher of the year in Palm Beach County in 1971. He advanced to become principal of Lantana Middle School and later designed, founded and served as principal of two high schools, Santaluces and Olympic Heights, and was promoted to assistant superintendent of Palm Beach County Schools. He retired in 1991 after 34 years in education. 

Students from over 50 years ago have continued to stay in touch with him because of the profound influence he has had on them. Not wanting to be far from music or ministry, he continued to lead various church and community choirs and was involved in missions throughout his life.  

He was known for his acceptance of all people. He never met a stranger. He believed the best in others and had a way of drawing that out. He made people feel special. He was extroverted and winsome, gregarious and generous, he loved people and people loved him back. 

Bill loved to be surrounded by his family. He passed down integrity, respect, patriotism, duty, stick-to-it-iveness, chivalry and humility. Music was always present and continues to resonate as part of his family legacy. Bill loved sharing life with "the love of my life, my beautiful wonderful wife, Bevy."

And most important of all, he knew God. His faith was strong. In his later years, he would break out singing "hallelujah!" often, or softly utter "thank You Lord" as he recognized even the smallest blessing. 

Bill was preceded by his parents, Theodrick and Norma; sister Francis; and brother Ed.

He is survived by his wife Beverly and his sons Bill II (Katia), of Spokane, Wash.; Jeff (Gabriela), of Alpharetta, Ga.; and Randy (Candy), of Lenoir, N.C.; and his grandchildren Bill III (Kamrin), Andy, Tim and Alex; Juliet and James; and Sarah and Josh. Also surviving is his sister, Wanda, and brother Jim (Annette); stepsons Ken, Robert (Lauri), Brian (Cynthia); stepgrandchildren Hunter, Griffin and Laurin; former wife Jane (Rick) Marton; and many special nieces and nephews and their families.

Bill's celebration of life service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 29, 2018, in the chapel of First Baptist Church on Green Street. The family will receive friends in the Church Parlor Thursday from 10 a.m. until the funeral hour. Interment will be held Friday, Nov. 30, 2018, at 12:30 p.m. at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Ga.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to the Ministry of Caring of First Baptist Church Gainesville, the American Cancer Society or Hospice of Northeast Georgia Medical Center.

Those wishing to send online condolences to the family may do so at  littledavenport.com. 

Little & Davenport Funeral Home and Crematory, Gainesville

Sign the online guest book at gainesvilletimes.com.