Donnell Goodwin

Donnell Goodwin (Don) was born to Wilvin and Josie Goodwin in Stockton, California on February 16, 1948. Don attended Taft Elementary, Marshall Jr. High and Edison High School. In high school, Don excelled in baseball and started what became his lifelong hobby of fishing.

After high school graduation, Don was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds. Don attended San Joaquin Delta College and San Jose State College where he graduated. In February 1969, Don enlisted in the United States Army Reserves and continued his baseball career. Eventually Don was ordered to active duty to defend our country. During his Army career, Don promoted through the enlisted ranks to the highest rank, Command Sergeant Major and retired after 34 years.

After retirement, Don owned several businesses. He enjoyed his time and loved to travel. Don enjoyed exploring his family genealogy. As a genealogist, Don found his passion and began collecting background information from everyone. It has been said, “Don never met a stranger.” No matter where he went or whose family reunion he attended, Don was known to all as the family genealogy expert. His memory and recollection of names and dates was astounding.

In 2016, Don packed his belongings and drove to Texas. Don purchased a home in DeSoto, Texas where he continued his passions of genealogy and fishing until the time of his death. His legacy remains as the family historian and avid fisherman.

Donnell Goodwin was preceded in death by his parents Wilvin and Josie Goodwin.

Don was one of six children born to Wilvin and Josie, he is survived by brothers Charles (Lola) Goodwin of Apple Valley, CA and Lee Goodwin of Pasadena, CA, sisters Opal Powe of Pomona, CA, Mary (Jim) Riley of San Diego, CA and Diane (Robert) Lee of Pasadena, CA.

Don leaves four children to cherish his memory. Leigh Goodwin of L.A., CA, Jonathan Goodwin of L.A., CA, Gabriela Garibay of Mexico, stepdaughter Jennifer Johnson of Inglewood CA, friend Anthony Garrett of Desoto, TX and girlfriend June McCaskill of Quincey, Florida as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends.