William D Goodson

William Donald Goodson Sr., 83, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, in Cocoa Beach, Florida, surrounded by his family. He was born on March 10, 1941, in Dothan, Alabama, to the late Barney Goodson and Pinkie Knowles-Atkinson.

Bill served in the U.S. Navy for 11 years where he study to become an Electrician. He then received his BS Degree in Electrical Engineering. He also attended the American Institute Trade School where he completed courses of understanding and using Fiber Optics in Data Communications. He also received training from the United States Air Force for equipment design using TEMPEST technology. He became an Electronic Technician/Engineer at Kennedy Space Center, where he eventually retired after a long and distinguished career.

An avid golfer, Bill could often be found on the course three or four days a week, enjoying the game he loved. He was also a devoted Florida State fan, especially since his granddaughter attended the university. Known for his sharp wit and no-nonsense attitude, Bill was affectionately referred to as a "Grumpy Old Man," a title he embraced with humor and pride.

Bill was predeceased by his beloved wife of 55 years, June Marie Goodson; his brother, Royce Atkinson; his sisters, Lila May Johnson, Angelina Davis and Brenda McGuire; and his precious granddaughter, Tabatha Goodson.

He is survived by his daughters, Angela Marie Goodson and Janet Faye Campbell; his son, William Donald Goodson Jr.; his siblings, Cecil Atkinson and Weldon Atkinson; his grandchildren, Donald Goodson, Lisa Brooks, Jennifer Bowen, Christopher Goodson, Stephanie Goodson, Joshua Goodson, and Alice Palmer; his great-grandchildren, Grant Goodson, Malachi Bowen-Heath, Ronnie 'Eli' Bowen, and Nevaeh Bowen; as well as his nephew, Alan Ingalls, and sisters-in-law, Joyce Ingalls and cousin Susan Baker.

Bill will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy of strength, love, and laughter will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. Though he often joked about his “grumpiness,” those who truly knew him understood the depth of his love for his family and the quiet kindness he showed in his own way. He will be remembered not only for his accomplishments, but for the special moments, his wit, and the many lives he touched throughout his years.

A Military Honors Ceremony will be held at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery on December 5, 2024 at 2:30pm.