Courtney Gooden

Courtney Gooden was born on April 6, 1963, in Talladega, Alabama, to the union of John Eddie Gooden and Willie Mildred Curry Gooden. At a young age, Courtney united with Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, where his faith became an important part of his life. He was educated in the Talladega City School System and was a proud graduate of Talladega High School where he enjoyed basketball and playing on the Talladega High School basketball team. In 1981, Courtney enlisted in the United States Navy, proudly serving his country for more than eight years. During his military career, he worked as an electronic technician at the London Groton Submarine Base in Connecticut as an Electronic Technician, Radiation Worker, and Anti-Terrorist Attack Force. Prior to his discharge, he was the recipient of many accolades including two Naval Ney Award Certificates, Naval Good Conduct Award, and Naval Good Conduct Medal. He also received many Civic accomplishments and was a member of Phi Beta Kappa Honors Fraternity. After his military service, Courtney continued his education and earned his associate, bachelor, and Workforce Education and Development degree. His love for learning and helping others led him into a rewarding career in education and counseling. Throughout his career and life, he served in many capacities, including transitional counselor supervisor, substance abuse counselor, and live in balance counselor with GEO Group at Salinas Valley State Prison, EMS senior supervisor, acting quality assurance trainer, and safety control substance inspector. Courtney later became a state school EMS vocational teacher where he utilized all his skills to assist with providing a better life for others. Courtney was a man of many talents, interests, and dreams. He had a vivid imagination and a creative mind, always thinking of new ideas and ways to accomplish his goals. He loved renovating and building houses and took great pride in creating and improving things. He loved education and was a serious-minded man who believed strongly in doing what was right, always with good intentions. Courtney also knew how to enjoy life. He loved cooking, especially for family gatherings, sitting along the riverbanks fishing, entertaining family and friends, and traveling. He was a fine dresser who took great pride in his appearance and had a special love for watches and suits. Courtney grew up in the Knoxville community, surrounded by family, friendships, and bonds that lasted a lifetime. He carried that sense of community with him throughout his life. Along his life's journey, Courtney was blessed to marry his soulmate, Mary Ann Gooden. Together, they shared 23 years of marriage filled with love, companionship, and countless memories. Though Courtney faced challenges and obstacles throughout his life, those who knew him knew that he had a good heart. He was determined, creative, hardworking, and deeply committed to the people and causes that mattered to him. On Friday, August 14, 2026, Courtney Gooden traded labor for eternal rest while in the care of UAB St. Vincent's Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama. He peacefully entered his eternal home, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, family, friendship, perseverance, and faith. Courtney was preceded in death by his parents, John Eddie and Willie Mildred Gooden; his brothers, Wayne Gooden and Lee Curtis Gooden; and his mother and father-in-law, Ramon Villanueva, Sr. and Teresita Villanueva, affectionately known as "Mama." He leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted wife, Mary Ann Gooden; his sons, Courtney A. Gooden and Arthur R. Gooden; his daughter, Devonne Clarice Gooden; his brothers, Preston (Hazel) Gooden, Marvin (Marquella) Gooden, Martin (Angelique) Gooden, David (Carolyn) Chapman, Tracy (Carolyn) Gooden, and Felton Gooden; sisters, Yteria (Walter) Linny and Loretta Gooden; brothers-in-law, Norman Villanueva, Ramon Villaneuva, Jr., Romeo Villaneuva, Vincent Villaneuva, and Richard Villaneuva; sisters-in-law, Merle Lopez, Ma Teresa Villaneuva, Sarah Jane Strominger, and Janette Moreno; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends who will miss him dearly. He also leaves behind special friends and caregivers, including Reginald Chapman, D. Frederick "Frosty" Cole, Curtis Matthew Gooden, Anthony Freeman, and the Pacheco Estates Community in Hollister, California, who became an important part of his life. Courtney's earthly journey may have come to an end, but the memories he created, the lives he touched, the lessons he shared, and the love he gave will continue to live on through his family and friends. Rest well, Courtney. Your labor is finished, your work is done, and your legacy will live on.

Tributes

Courtney Gooden

April 6, 1963 - August 14, 2026