James Henry Goodwin

James Henry Goodwin, 72, US Navy Veteran, Rank E-3, Parkersburg, WV passed away Sunday, February 12, 2017, at his residence alongside his family after an extended illness. He was born December 21, 1944 in Jackson County, WV, a son of the late James Muryl Goodwin and Oma Estelle Rake. Jim enjoyed coaching baseball, golfing, traveling with Debbie, watching his grandson's activities, washing his car and mowing his yard. He is survived by his loving wife, Deborah Goodwin and two children, Michael Goodwin (Melissa) of Parkersburg and Eric DeBarr (Bonnie) of Denver, Colorado, one sister Lois Kerns (Dave) of Stewart, Ohio, five brothers Ronald Goodwin (Sharon) of Vienna, Michael Goodwin (Patricia) of Jane Lew, WV, Jan Hunt (Helen) of Vienna, Steve Hunt (Karen) of Parkersburg and Wayde Hunt (Libby) of Vienna; three grandchildren Lucas, Kyle and Devin; and Daisy his trusted guard cat. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Eileen Graham. Jim was a graduate of Wirt County High School in 1964 and following he enlisted in the US Navy and served on the USS Little Rock. He was a graduate of the WV State Police Academy and served on the City of Parkersburg Police Force. Jim worked at Elkem Metals for over 31 years and also counseled employees at Elkem who had drug and alcohol addictions. Jim was a loyal and proud member of American Legion Post 15 in Parkersburg. He served on numerous committees and was a member of the 40 and 8. Jim coached for the American Legion Baseball Team for over 25 years (with over 500 wins) and devoted his time to countless young men who played on his teams. His passionate dedication to the game he loved brought together many fine players over the years regardless of what school or county they resided in. Jim's fiery tenacity emulated through his team each game, but it was the relationships he developed with his players and the discipline and respect that he instilled in each one of them that meant the most to him. Double Headers at the park on Sundays will not be the same without him. A dream come true for Jim was getting to coach his grandsons, Lucas and Kyle. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, February 15, 2017 at the Independent Baptist Church in Vienna, WV with Pastor Michael Elder officiating. Friends will be welcome one hour prior to the service on Wednesday at the church. Lambert-Tatman Funeral Home, Vienna is assisting the family with arrangements. A special thanks to Dr. Cawley and her staff along with the Hospice staff for their care the last few years. Contributions may be made to American Legion Post 15 Baseball in lieu of flowers. Jim would have wanted the kids to benefit from him one last time.