Willie James Gooden was born in Clayton, Alabama on December 20, 1937. He was called home on Sunday April 13, 2025 in Akron, Ohio. He was the oldest child of A.T. and Annie Laura Gooden. He left behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, with his joyful personality and unwavering loyalty.

He graduated from West High School in Akron Ohio. Upon graduation he was enlisted into the United States Airforce where he served his country until he was honorably discharged in Bellevue, Nebraska (1958-1962). Willie wanted to return to Akron, but he met and fell in love with the love of his life, Gloria Jean Smith-Elliott. They got married in 1963 and from that union three children were born, Ronald, Laurence, and Rodney Gooden.

His father brought him and the family from Clayton to Akron for better opportunities. From an early age, along with his seven siblings, he attended St. John C.M.E. church before he was drafted into the Service. In Omaha, Nebraska he and Gloria attended the First Presbyterian Church. After Gloria passed in April 2016, Willie relocated to Akron Ohio in 2018 and resumed attending St. John C.M.E. Church; even joining the Male Chorus.

Willie was an entrepreneur at heart just like his father; he opened and operated a local Beverage store in Omaha that lasted for 22 years.

Willie enjoyed many hobbies like any other Gooden which included fishing, collecting cars, camping. And if you knew Willie, he always told “a long story short”.

He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and brother. He worked tirelessly alongside his brothers at their father’s family business, Al & Sons Construction, until he could not any longer.

Willie was so proud of the man Rodney had become, and they supported each other so tenderly until his last days on this earth.

He is preceded in death by his wife Gloria, mother Annie, father A.T., brothers Oscar, Richard, and Melvin Gooden.

Memorial Services will be held, Thursday, April 24, 2025, 11:00 a.m., St. Johns CME Church, 1233 S. Hawkins Avenue, Akron, Ohio 44320