Richard L. Goodson

Richard Leslie Goodson, "Richie", was born on April 21, 2947, in Cleveland, Ohio, to the union of the late Lander F. Goodson, and Thessaionia "Margaret" Wade. He was the fourth oldest of six siblings, Diane, Milton "Sam"(deceased), Myrna, Donald Wade (deceased), and Renee Wade-Green. Richard attended St. Anthony Elementary School, Detroit, Michigan; John Adams High School; Airco Technical Institute where he learned the skills of welding. He also took courses at Cuyahoga Community College. Richard grew up in a Christian family of ministers. As a child, he attended Community AME Church, where his grandfather, Rev. M.D. Addison was the Pastor. His uncle, Rev. John W. Addison, was an ordained minister. His brother, Rev. Milton "Sam" Goodson, was co-founder of Restoration Fellow Tabernacle in Detroit, Michigan. He was baptized during his early childhood. He was a devoted Christian, attending church, praising the Lord, reading his bible, and singing spirituals. He was a member of Zion Pentecostal Church of Christ, where he was baptized again 14 years ago with Mike Miller, one of his many friends. In 1967 he married his high school sweetheart, Ethelda Harkins. From that union, one son, Richard Antwon Goodson was born. Richard recently became engaged to Shawntina "Shawn" Sanders, before he became ill. Shawn helped take care of him along with other family members. Richard attended John Adams H.S. He was hired by Otis Elevator as a welder after successfully completing his studies at Airco technical Institute. He worked as a truck driver and a self-employed barber. He had many God given gifts. He was very kindhearted, had a wonderful gift of gab; he loved everyone and everyone loved him. Richard was a giver; he would give you the shirt off his back and his last dime if you were in need. He had a beautiful baritone voice, and loved to sing. He had amazing culinary skills, cooking was his therapy; he would cook almost everything. Richard was the neighborhood barber, in the Lee Harvard community, cutting his clients hair in his home. He was very devoted to his mother, and the rest of his family. He had the ability to establish a rapport with everyone he came in contact with, no matter where and regardless of the time, situation or circumstances. He loved the life he lived, and lived the life he loved; Richard was a free spirit. He loved music, especially Jazz, he also loved playing card games and board games. As he navigated through life's ups and downs, Richard was always able to ride it out and survive many difficult situations. He loved his son and was a source of continuous coaching as his son grew into manhood. He remained committed to becoming his Mother's resident caregiver. He cooked her meals, made sure she took her meds, did her laundry, and whatever else was needed. He told her he would be with her until the end. He kept his promise; he meant he would be with her until the end of her life. He was a real trooper. As fate played out, he preceded her. Even as weak as he had become, last week he got up and fixed his Mom a cup of coffee. Richard passed away quietly and peacefully with pride, dignity and respect, surrounded by loved ones. Richard was preceded in death by, his father, Lander Foster Goodson; nephew, Michael Craig Goodson; brothers, Donald Wade and Rev. Milton "Sam" Goodson. Richard leaves to mourn his mother, Margaret Wade; son, Richard Antwon Goodson of Washington, D.C.; sisters, Diane Howard (Walter), Myrna Goodson-White (Gerald), Renee Wade- Green (Darrel), his fiancée, Shawntina Sanders; grandchild, Josiah; 16 nieces and nephews and a host of other family members and friends. Services celebrating his life will take place SATURDAY, JUNE 25, 2011, WAKE: 12:30 PM. SERVICES: 1:00 PM. at WATSON'S FUNERAL HOME. 10913 Superior Ave. 216..721..0066.