He was born on January 7, 1934 to Doris Lumpkin Gooden and Reuben Gooden and was the delight of his older sister Jacqueline's heart. Jackie would come to keep him out of trouble, guide him and love him beyond measure all of his life. James Donald Gooden Sr. was a blessed man from the start. He grew up in the Avondale area of Lafayette, AL where times were hard but folks were like family. "Dit", as everyone called him, was quite the athlete and excelled at football and baseball. He often talked about some of the great athletes and friends around him like Herman Hand Jr. and J.W. and Robert Hanson.

He served in the U.S. Navy for four years, attended Southern Union College and graduated from Troy University. He had the good fortune to find the love of his faithful wife of 60 years, Joyce Hand Gooden. His sweetest expression could be seen the many times he danced with her. Together, they had 4 children, Kira (who he named from a book he loved), Jay (who is his namesake), Jonathan (who he named after two competing football players) and Kathryn Anne (named for both of her Grandmothers and blessed with the Auburn hair of his heritage).

He was a coach when his family was young and he mentored many young men who love him still. He was "old school" on the football field. It was hustle and grit or go home for "Coach Gooden". Respect and discipline were not an option. His service to his community through Jaycees, volunteer coaching and other programs were very important to him.

His story would not be complete without the tale of a bird dog named Scott and the best Buddies that ever walked. Jack Jarrell, Terry Randolph and Delon Freeman were his hunting, fishing and golfing side-kicks and trusted confidants who remained that way all of his days.

J.D. Gooden never met a stranger, even in the last months of his life. He loved people well and was quick to crack a joke or two. Some of his biggest earthly treasures, were his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was openly proud of them and as "Pawpaw and Grandmama" he and his bride earned the love and adoration of every one of them. Their home was for these children, a safe and happy place to learn and grow in wisdom and faith. It will remain a firm example of unconditional love for generations to come.

He rededicated his life to Jesus Christ in his 60's and faithfully served The Lord, together with his wife Joyce. Nothing in the world could have filled her with more joy. Their church family is a source of great strength to them and full of many wonderful friends. They both loved to hear their Minister, Bro. Jimmy Allen preach and teach as often as they could.

On February 14, 2021, J.D. was healed by his Lord and Savior in Heaven where he now resides. He is missed. He is loved. He will never be forgotten.

He is preceded in death by his parents Doris and Reuben his precious tiny grandson James David Gooden, his precious tiny granddaughter Baylee Beckham, his Brother in law Aubrey Lauderdale, his Mother in law Kathryn Hand Collier, and Sister in law, Ansley Hand Eiland. He leaves behind a legacy of love to his wife Joyce Hand Gooden, daughter, Kira Craft (Mike) and grandchildren Brent, Allie, Ben, Michelle and Michael and their families, his son James Donald Gooden Jr. (Debbie) and granddaughter Kelsey, his son Jonathan Marshall Gooden (Emily) and granddaughter Imani and her family, and daughter Kathryn Anne Beckham (Tate) and granddaughter Beven. He also leaves his loving sister Jacqueline Lauderdale, his niece Nina Arnold, and nephew Don Lauderdale and their families, and his nephew Todd Eiland and his family.

A Memorial Service will be held at Dixon All Faith Chapel at The Southern Prep Academy in Camp Hill, AL (formally Lyman Ward Military Academy), a place where he served and dearly loved.

Friends and Family are invited to attend on Sunday, February 21, 2021 at 2 o'clock. He will be laid to rest on Monday, February 22, 2021 at The Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo, AL with Honors in a small family service.

The Gooden family wishes to express our heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love during this time.

In lieu of flowers please make any donations to The Southern Prep Academy in his honor.