Eric Goodchild

Eric Goodchild

Shelburne, MA - Eric Leonard Goodchild, 65, in his words: "Turned the page. Closed the book. And went to meet the Author" on July 6, 2025. He was born April 5, 1960 to Irwin L. Goodchild, Jr. and Gertrude Conklin Goodchild. He grew up in Pelham, MA until the family moved to Shelburne, MA. He graduated from Mohawk Trail High School, and Holyoke Community College with an Associate Degree in Music. Eric also attended Lowell State College as a music major for one year before going to work on his Grandparent's dairy farm in Ashley Falls, MA. He married Barbara (Davenport) Goodchild of Shelburne, MA, and together they started Barberic Farm (pronounced: Barb-Eric Farm). They have been vendors at area farmers markets since 2006.

As a 50-year solo bagpiper, Eric played for many and various private and public celebrations. He was also a bagpipe and violin/fiddle teacher, and lover of classical, folk, oldies, and sacred music. He was a full-time farming musician or musical farmer; it depended on the day. Part-time employment off the farm included: Dabar Computer Services, Toyota of Greenfield, and Home Depot, Greenfield, MA. He was a member of the River Valley Christian Church, Leyden Rifle Club, Franklin County Radio Control Model Airplane Club, and the American Revolutionary War Appleseed Project.

Eric is survived by his wife Barbara of Shelburne, son Ian Goodchild, Atlantic Highlands, NJ; daughter Anna (David) Kopcych, Taunton, MA; granddaughters Amelia and Eva; brother Bruce (Donna) Goodchild, Ashley Falls, MA, and a wide extended family.

A gathering of Thanksgiving for the Life of Eric Goodchild will be held on Sunday, August 10, 2025, from 1:30 to 4:30 pm, at the Davenport Maple Farm, 111 Tower Road, Shelburne, MA. Starting at 1:30pm with a hymn sing, 2pm service, followed by a finger food potluck and bring your own lawn chair reception. Beverages and paper goods provided. Burial will be a private family gathering.

Donations to help with medical and funeral expenses and/or to help Barberic Farm can be sent to: Barbara Goodchild, c/o River Valley Christian Church, 11 Silver Street, Greenfield, MA 01301. Memorial contributions can be sent to the charity of your choice. Smith Kelleher Funeral Home is helping with arrangements.