Walter Franklin Goodman Jr.

Wally was born in Springfield, Illinois, on November 26, 1943, to Walter and Lorene Goodman. He married Patricia Ann Conlon in 1966, and they shared many years together until her passing in 2024.

Wally is survived by his daughter, Jane Hayden (John) of Clinton, Illinois, and his son, Joel Goodman (Stacey) of Nashville, Tennessee. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Kaitlin Whitted (Dalton) of Clinton, Illinois; Garrett Hayden of Bloomington, Illinois; Grace Goodman of Atlanta, Georgia; and Erik Hayden of Clinton, Illinois. In addition, he is survived by his great-granddaughter, Hayden. Wally is also survived by two sisters, Carol Quinn of Eaton, Colorado and Vicki Bibb (Lee) of Arlington, Texas.

Wally dedicated his career to education as a history teacher in the Ball-Chatham School District, teaching at both Glenwood Junior High School and Glenwood High School. An accomplished trap shooter, he competed nationally and took great pride in mentoring a group of student shooters to a state championship. He also cherished watching his grandchildren compete in sports, smoking meat for family and friends, and sharing stories that brought laughter and smiles to those around him.

Wally will be remembered for his love of family, his passion for storytelling, a book in his back pocket and a grumpy exterior that masked a great sense of humor.

Cremation rites were accorded and the family will be having a private service.