John Gooden

John Howard Gooden (1940 - 2025) John Howard Gooden, born on March 10, 1940, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, passed away on April 13, 2025, at the age of 85. John's journey began in Tulsa, where he was born and raised. John dedicated his early life to education by earning a graduate degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Oklahoma and working with children, reflecting his passion for empathizing with the youth. He spent the majority of his life in Houston, Texas, where he continued his passion for education by teaching computer classes and also tried his hand at many careers including driving salesman, construction, telemarketing and property management but eventually settled into the food retail industry where he loved engaging with customers and his work family. John was an avid reader and lover of science fiction novels. He enjoyed family gatherings where he would begin every conversation with "to keep a long story short," a phrase that endeared him to his loved ones and prepared his audience for a story rifled with sidebars and hilarious plot twists. He was a fixture during the holidays and typically brought the holiday ham and had a pocketknife at the ready for opening toys. Throughout his life, John was known for his friendliness (he never met a stranger), storytelling and never turned down any adventure. John leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion. He is survived by his sister, Lynn Yerestky, and brothers, Greg Gooden and Tobe Gooden. He is preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Faye Gooden, his brother Pat Gooden and his life partner Mei Ing Lin. Mei’s family has taken John into their lives and includes daughter Yomei Curtin and her husband Michael Curtin, son Yolim Khoo, and grandchildren, Isabella Gonzalez, Tristan Gonzalez, and Gabriella Gonzalez. John's memory will forever be cherished by those who knew him. His life was a testament to the joy of storytelling, and the importance of kindness. As we remember John, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with love, laughter, and lasting connections. Please join the family for a service in honor of John Gooden. St. Joseph Catholic Church 101 Elmore St New Waverly, TX 77358 May 31, 2025 11:00am

John Gooden

March 10, 1940 - April 13, 2025