With heavy hearts and great sadness, we announce the passing of a loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother. Jerry Marvin Goodson left us on May 13, 2026, at the age of 85. To those of us who loved him, he was a giant, not only in his love for us, storied life, love of sports, Elvis but also in his size, over 6ft 5inches. He never lost his stature to us, nor his fabulous hair!

My Dad was born in Paris, Arkansas and as a child moved to Haysville, Kansas overcoming many difficult times but always striving to do his best, a true survivor. Jerry was a standout athlete at Derby High, where he played football, basketball, and baseball. While playing football at the College of Emporia, he met the love of his life, De An (Alexander) Goodson, his wife of 64 years. The story goes, when they met, she asked, “where are you from”? He said Paris, later she would learn he was not from France, but Arkansas! It was probably his good looks she was mesmerized with, because anyone who met him did notice that Arkansas twang! Still, he did provide her with a lifetime of worldly memories, if it wasn’t owning thoroughbreds and attending horse races, drag racing (multiple track championships), taking trips, RVing and boating around North America, later with his grandsons. He loved fishing; the fish just didn’t reciprocate the same feelings. He once was told by a fishing guide that he was the most unluckily fisherman he had met. Another time when my parents went on a fishing boat in Alaska, he was never able to cast his line; instead, he spent the trip looking overboard.

He was a walking encyclopedia of sports knowledge. Any question you had, he could answer. A true lover of sports, you might find him at a professional boxing match sitting next to George Foreman’s trainer in a white leisure suit, attending professional baseball or football games or at the Breeder’s Cup getting his picture taken not only with the jockeys but most importantly Bo Derek! I may not be 10, but in my dad’s eyes I was! From Columbine Rams to Montrose Highs School Indians, he was my number one fan, little did he know; he was mine.

As a grandfather, he loved spending time with Jack and Sam. They went on many RV trips, one year visiting all the “hall of fame” museums. Sam often asked if they would be spending the night in the Walmart parking lot! He attended many of their hockey, football, basketball, and track events. Along with high school and college graduations. They loved their grandpa and he loved them.

Jerry was preceded in death by his daughter Lori (Goodson) Parson. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, De An, daughter Stephanie (Goodson) Klemp, grandsons Jack and Sam Klemp, son-in-laws Todd Klemp and Norman Parson, brother Larry Goodson and many loved ones and friends

A special thank you to HopeWest for your kindness, care, support and guidance.

A celebration of life will take place this Summer.