James O. Goodwin

James O. Goodwin O’Fallon, MO, passed away at the age of 85 on Monday, July 26, 2021. He was preceded in death by his parents; Leonard and Leona Goodwin; two brothers, Richard and Robert Goodwin; and his grandson, Nicholas O’Neal Goodwin.

James is survived by his wife of 67 years, Shirley Goodwin; his children, Ronald O'Neal Goodwin, James Joseph Goodwin, Karen Susan (Tom) Locke, Nancy Caroline (Lane) Hale, and Thomas Daniel (Theresa) Goodwin.; his grandchildren, Amanda (Nick) Wagenknecht, James (Kim) Goodwin, Ashley (fiancé Eric Hurtte) Rufkahr, Courtney (Eric) Harris, Kaci (Nick) McFerron, Jacob (fiancée Kelly Williams) Hale, Sara Hale, Alexandria Hale, Maryanna Hale, Gregory (Karen) Goodwin, and Leah (Richie) Knight; his great-grandchildren, Braiden, Henley, Cece, Quinn, Molly, Austin, Maverick, MacKenzie, Xander, Palmer, and Baby Caroline.

James was a proud veteran of the United States Army. He had an incredible work ethic and often put in long hours, working until he was 74. He was an entrepreneur and local business leader who owned the Ben Franklin Store, Plaza Hardware, and Gem’s Variety – all in O’Fallon. James also worked as a manager with Walmart, first in St. Charles and then in O’Fallon.

His sense of humor and fondness for playing practical jokes was legendary among those who knew him, especially with his kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids. His teasing was so convincing that even had some of his grandkids and great-grandkids believing that chocolate milk came from brown cows. For fun, James enjoyed bowling, watching wrestling, and Cardinals baseball. He also dedicated his time as a softball coach for several years. James will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Baue Funeral Homes is currently following CDC recommendations regarding mask and social distancing policies.