Robert Woods Goodwin

Robert “Bob” Woods Goodwin (80). Bob was born in Attleboro, Massachusetts to William Joseph and Doris Woods Goodwin on November 18, 1930. Raised in New Britain, Connecticut with summers in Mansfield, Bob at an early age knew he wanted to fly and serve his country. His values were established through the Boy Scouts, achieving Eagle Scout and Assistant Scout Leader status. It was with great pride that he attended Brown University on a NROTC scholarship, and soon after graduating he joined the Navy, obtaining his childhood dream of becoming a Naval Aviator. During his accomplished Naval career, he helped recruit others to follow in his footsteps, and became a member of the exclusive Caterpillar Club, finishing his 25 year career in the Naval Reserves. His successful civilian career included establishing/operating his own insurance agency for over 30 years (AIM, Association Insurance Management), employing many people throughout the years. Even though he absolutely loved working, he retired at age 77 due to declining health.

In addition to being a family man with three children, Bob’s church and community involvement were always a priority. He was a devoted member of Riverside Presbyterian Church for 43 years, the place of worship he considered his “second home.” He served as an Elder, his children attended Riverside Presbyterian Day School, he chaired numerous committees, and was involved in Tradition House and the Friday Morning Men’s Group. Outside of the church, he enjoyed memberships in The Masons, Shriners, West Jax Rotary Club, Florida Yacht Club, Hibernians and had a long time association with the Yates YMCA. He served as founder and charter member of the Jacksonville Hanger of QB’s (Quiet Birdmen), and a participant in several Outward Bound trips. Bob was quite passionate about antique cars, and acquired many trophies for his white ’57 Thunderbird convertible, ’63 Buick Riviera, and red ’65 Mustang convertible. He also loved the Blue Angels, Red Sox, Gators and most of all, family gatherings.

As a result of Bob’s long-term post-polio disease complications, he passed away at St. Vincent’s Hospital December 10, 2010. He was predeceased by his parents, first wife Patricia Louther Goodwin and daughter Cynthia Brooke Goodwin Edwards. He is survived by his wife of 26 years Marlene N. Goodwin, daughter Leslie Crisp (Dale), son Gregg Goodwin (Genna), sister Patricia Goodwin White, grandsons Kyle and Kevin Crisp, step-children Thomas Sandlin, Jr (Rachel), Anne Wolfe (Ned), Leigh Bishop (Daniel), step grandchildren Julia and Benjamin Sandlin, Evan Deen, Drew Wolfe, Daniel Wolfe and Eric Wolfe, niece Deanna Peer, nephews Richard White and Daniel White (Victoria), grand niece Rebecca White and grand nephews Kenny Peer and Paul .

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, December 17th at 11:00 a.m. at Riverside Presbyterian Church, 849 Park Street, Jacksonville, 32204. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions in Bob’s honor to Riverside Presbyterian Church or Riverside Presbyterian Day School.