Reginald “Reggie” Goodman

On Monday, October 13, 2025, Mr. Reginald Anthony Goodman, affectionately known by many names—“Reggie,” “RG,” “R Goody,” and “Rat”—departed this life peacefully and entered eternal rest. Born on October 31, 1961, in Nansemond County, now part of Suffolk, Virginia, Reginald was the second of six siblings.

As a young boy, Reggie grew up on Pitchkettle Road, where his childhood was filled with laughter, friendship, and endless adventures shared with the Scott, Lawrence, and Arrington families. Those dirt roads were the backdrop of countless memories that shaped the kind, witty, and resilient man he would become.

Reggie’s faith took root in the home of his grandmother, Pastor Ophelia B. Goodman, where he accepted the Lord as his Savior while listening to the Community Prayer Band. He continued his walk with Christ under the guidance of his mother, Minister Beverly J. Worrell Goodman, a devoted member of Greater Sweet Beulah Apostolic Church under the leadership of the late Suffragan Bishop Madison G. Copeland. Reggie was baptized in the name of Jesus—a moment that marked his lifelong foundation of faith.

Educated in the Suffolk Public School System, Reggie graduated from Forest Glen High School, Class of 1980, where he left an undeniable mark as an exceptional athlete. Known for his speed, strength, and passion for the game, he excelled in wrestling, basketball, and football. Together with his brother, Alvin Goodman (#87), the Goodman Boys dominated the field, earning respect and admiration across the city. Reggie’s (#88) outstanding performance earned him numerous awards, recognitions, and a well-deserved scholarship to Norfolk State University.

Reggie’s strong work ethic emerged early in life. As a teen, he took pride in lawn care jobs before embarking on long-term employment with Virginia Packing Co., NORSHIPCO, and several construction companies. No matter the task, Reggie worked with dedication, reliability, and pride. Even in the face of health challenges, his determination and willingness to help others never wavered.

Reggie was more than just a hard worker—he was the heartbeat of every gathering. A loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend, he found true joy in family. His three beautiful granddaughters were the light of his life. Known for his quick wit, humor, and magnetic charm, Reggie could light up any room. He was a storyteller, a jokester, and a man whose laughter was contagious. His must-haves—Cherry Chapstick, jewelry, hairbrush, cologne, pig feet, and Little Debbie oatmeal cakes—were as much a part of his signature style as his unwavering loyalty to his favorite team, the Dallas Cowboys.

Reggie’s deep love for family and friends was evident in every conversation, every dance, every laugh, and every song he sang spontaneously. He was truly one of a kind—vibrant, full of life, and unforgettable.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin L. W Jr. and Beverly J. Worrell Goodman; his grandparents, Alvin L. Goodman Sr. and Pastor Ophelia B. Goodman; Jerome Worrell and Catherine B. Worrell; his uncles, Hugh Goodman, Raymond Goodman, and Elder James T. Goodman; his aunts, Virginia Warren, Pastor Catherine Whittington, Marion Anderson, Mary Oliphant, Etta Rea Wilkins, and Jeneal Boone. 

Reggie leaves behind cherished memories and a legacy of love through his children, Romaine Goodman and LaShanta Goodman-Evans; his precious granddaughters, Sarai and twins Omni and Callie Evans; and his former wife, LaBarbara Goodman.

He is also survived by his devoted siblings, Sherry D. Goodman, Beverly G. Howell (Darren), Alvin L. Goodman III (Tonya), Dennis J. Goodman, and Paul L. Goodman (Kelly); aunts, Evelyn Brown, Bishop Paige Pringle, Patricia Brown, and Elder Linda G. Wright; uncle, Elder Bobby Goodman (Kassandra); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Among those closest to his heart were his special nieces and nephews, Kiara Goodman, Tamekia G. Pruden, Ricardo L. Ray, and Ricardo B. Ray; cousins, Terrie Wilkins-Arrington, Shauna Wilkins, Regina Anderson, JaNice Goodman, and LaBarbara Bell; and special friends and homeboys, Ethel (Bee) Holland, Walter “Binky” Smith, Frank “Geno” Eley, Ronald Lawrence, Peggy Lawrence, Jessie Riddick, and Bobby Ray Hunter.

Through every season of life, Reggie was covered by God’s love, protection, and grace. Now, having finished his earthly journey, he has returned home—whole, at peace, and forever surrounded by divine light and love.