Kathleen Joy Gooden

Kathleen was born on August 11, 1962, in Guy’s Hill, St. Catherine, Jamaica, to Herman and Linnette Hutchinson. In March 1972, she immigrated to the United States with her family, settling in Norwalk, Connecticut. She graduated from Norwalk High School in 1980 and earned her bachelor’s degree in computer science from Syracuse University in 1985. Following graduation, Kathleen moved to California to pursue her professional career, beginning her journey at General Dynamics.

It was at General Dynamics that Kathleen met the love of her life, Duane Gooden. They married on June 25, 1989, and together built a life rooted in love, faith, family, and shared adventures. Kathleen and Duane especially treasured spending time with their families, creating countless memories through trips, vacations, and gatherings with their siblings and loved ones.

Kathleen was a devoted and loving mother whose family was always at the center of her life. Warm, compassionate, spirited, and full of joy, she embraced life with enthusiasm and an unwavering determination to make every moment meaningful.

In 2016, Kathleen discovered a love for drawing, initially to relax and unwind. What began as a simple pastime soon blossomed into a remarkable artistic passion. Her creativity and talent brought joy to family members and friends, many of whom became the proud recipients of her beautiful drawings, particularly heartfelt portraits of loved ones and cherished pets.

Kathleen was also an avid tennis and pickleball player. Her competitive spirit, determination, and love for the games were so strong that she continued playing even while undergoing chemotherapy treatments—a testament to her resilience and extraordinary zest for life.

Kathleen's commitment to helping others extended into her passion for health and wellness. In 2019, she earned a Master of Science degree in Clinical Nutrition and Integrative Health from Notre Dame of Maryland University’s School of Integrative Health. She subsequently became a Functional Nutritionist and established her own nutrition counseling practice, where she guided clients toward healthier lifestyles through improved nutrition and overall well-being.

An accomplished author, Kathleen published two books, Practical Ways to Better Mental Health and Soaring Over the Valley. Both works reflected her deep commitment to physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness, as well as her heartfelt desire to inspire, encourage, and uplift others.

During her courageous four-year journey with cancer, Kathleen founded and facilitated Anchor for Cancer, a support group at her church. Through this ministry, she created a welcoming place where individuals facing cancer could share their struggles, strengthen their faith, and find comfort and encouragement in one another. The friendships and bonds she developed through this group were deeply meaningful to her, and she treasured the opportunity to walk alongside others facing similar challenges.

Throughout her life, Kathleen drew strength, courage, and hope from her unwavering faith in God. Even in the face of tremendous adversity, she remained steadfast in her belief that her journey had a greater purpose. Her life was a beautiful reflection of perseverance, grace, compassion, and an enduring desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Perhaps no words better capture Kathleen’s faith and strength than those she wrote in her book, Soaring Over the Valley:

“As He guides me to my destination, God is using my walk through the path of cancer, through the darkest valley of my life, for His glory. Yes, it is He who is leading and teaching me to walk every day in the Spirit so that I might be a beacon of light to a world that needs to see Him. Walking by faith can be scary and difficult at times for all of us. But God has called us to trust Him with all our hearts (Proverbs 3:5) in every aspect of our lives. We need to ask Him to blindfold us and lead us by faith to the place where He wants us to go.”

Above all, Kathleen will be remembered for her beautiful laughter, radiant spirit, and extraordinary ability to connect with people from every walk of life. She possessed a rare gift for making others feel immediately welcomed, comfortable, and valued. Whether speaking with a lifelong friend or someone she had just met, Kathleen could effortlessly find common ground and turn an ordinary conversation into a meaningful connection. Her genuine interest in others, infectious laughter, and boundless warmth left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Kathleen's legacy is one of love, faith, courage, and service to others. Although her earthly journey has come to an end, the lives she touched, the relationships she nurtured, and the love she so freely shared will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.

Kathleen was preceded in death by her father, Herman Hutchinson. She leaves to cherish her loving memory her devoted husband, Duane Gooden; daughters, Selena and Alysia Gooden; sons, Monte and Vincent Gooden; mother, Linnette Hutchinson; brothers, Michael Williams, Hugh Hutchinson, and Gary Hutchinson; sister, Andrea Moxam; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Memorial Contributions

In honor of Kathleen’s life and legacy, memorial donations may be made to the University of Arizona Foundation at give.uofafoundation.org.

Memorial Service

Wednesday, November 4, 2026

12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

East Lawn Palms Mortuary

5801 East Grant Road

Tucson, Arizona 85712

Reception: To follow at a location to be announced.