Theodore Goodson Jr.

Theodore was born on February 25, 1944, in Knightdale, North Carolina, one of 15 children, to the late Theodore Sr. and Lucille (Smith) Goodson. He attended school in Raleigh, North Carolina, before pursuing higher education at North Carolina State University, where he earned a master’s degree in organic chemistry. It was during his college years that Theodore met the love of his life, Exie Goodson. The two soon married and began a beautiful journey together, sharing 60 years of love, companionship, and devotion. The young couple eventually made Indianapolis their home, where Theodore began his scientific career.

Theodore was a visionary organic chemist whose life's work at Eli Lilly and Company helped shape the modern world of medicine. Over a highly successful career, he used his unique skills in molecular design to find new ways to treat some of humanity's most complex health conditions. As a remarkably prolific inventor, Goodson held 34 U.S. patents for his groundbreaking discoveries. His work was essential in creating safer, next-generation blood thinners to protect patients from dangerous blood clots, strokes, and heart issues. He and his colleagues also pioneered the design of targeted molecules that block harmful inflammation and cell damage, laying the groundwork for newer treatments in cancer and brain health. His patents and impact on other scientists form a scientific legacy that stands as a testament to his dedication to improving human health, showing how a single brilliant mind in the laboratory can touch millions of patient lives around the globe.

Beyond his professional career, Theodore was a man of many interests and deep convictions. An avid reader, he enjoyed exploring theology, philosophy, politics, and civil rights. He was intellectually curious and deeply engaged in the world around him, always eager to learn, reflect, and share his perspective. Theodore also had a love for travel and enjoyed the opportunity to experience different cultures and places around the world and loved trips to Paris with Exie.

A man of deep and abiding faith, Theodore was a lifelong Christian. Raised Baptist, he later embraced the Catholic faith, finding great fulfillment in his spiritual journey. He put his beliefs into action as a youth leader, shaping the lives of the next generation, and was formerly active in the Knights of Columbus, where he dedicated himself to charity, unity, and community service. His relationship with God was the anchor of his life, guiding his moral compass and infusing his daily actions with grace, humility, and purpose. Theodore was known for his remarkable intelligence, thoughtful counsel, and generous spirit. He possessed a rare quiet wisdom, the kind that did not lecture, but instead listened deeply before offering comfort. Family, friends, and those who knew him often turned to him for guidance and advice, knowing they would find understanding, encouragement, and a safe harbor in times of trouble. He had a unique ability to see the best in people and help them see it in themselves, always lifting others up with his words. As one of the eldest of 15 siblings, Theodore held a special place within his family. He was a pillar of strength and support to his brothers and sisters, Gloria Goodson-Hurt, William Goodson, Joyce Goodson, Ruthie Goodson-Brock, Joseph Goodson, Mae Flood, Weisner Goodson, Swonnora Pascua, Theodoria Dunn, Lacy Jones, Lucille Goodson, Rogie Grant, Elbert Goodson, and Earl Penny Bullock. They all knew they could depend on him completely. To his large and loving family, he was not just an older brother, but a steady protector, a lifelong mentor, and a living example of how to walk through the world with faith and integrity.

As a father of six children, Theodore was a constant source of unconditional encouragement, rooted deeply in his unwavering faith in the Lord and his enduring belief in the good spirit of others. He beautifully embraced the approach that each of his children was entirely unique in their talents, goals, and aspirations. Rather than steering them down a single path, he took the time to become deeply knowledgeable in their individual interests, providing profoundly tailored insights and guidance on how to achieve their dreams. Whether his children pursued science, music, sports, business, or literature, Theodore met them exactly where they were. He provided high-level mentorship, possessing a rare ability to break down the key ideas, masteries, and core methods required to truly excel. He didn't just teach them how to be successful; he taught them how to embrace the unique qualities that made them who they were, leaving an ingrained mark on the lives and careers of the family he so fiercely loved.

Theodore is survived by his children, Norman Goodson, Allyson (George) Olk, Paul Goodson, Exie Goodson, Theodore (Stephanie) Goodson, and John Goodson; his grandchildren, David Jr. (Claire) Riley, Exie (Khyania) Adams, Chase Riley, Imani Riley, Guadeloupe Goodson, Norman Goodson Jr, Theodore Goodson IV, Elizabeth Goodson, and Sean Goodson; and his great-grandchildren, David Riley III, Calvert “Cal” Riley, and Emerie-Clair Riley, Nolan Powers, Nathan Powers, and Niala Powers. He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews. He is further survived by his siblings: Gloria Goodson-Hurt, Joyce Goodson, Ruthie Goodson-Brock, Swonnora Goodson-Pascua.

His beloved wife, Exie, preceded him in death on January 19, 2026.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 2250 E. Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor, Michigan, on Monday, November 9, 2026, at 11:30 a.m., with Father James Conlon presiding. Theodore will lie in state one hour prior to the Mass. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery in Ann Arbor.

Flowers will be accepted in Theodore’s honor.

Muehlig Funeral Chapel is honored to serve the Goodson family. Online condolences may be expressed by visiting www.MuehligAnnArbor.com.