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JOSEPH GOFF Obituary
On October 3rd, Jacksonville's music industry lost an icon and heaven gained an angel with the passing of Joseph "Murray" Goff, Jr. Murray earned his wings by bringing much joy and happiness to so many people through his larger-than-life personality and musical talents.
Starting at the age of four, he became a classically trained pianist. As a Jacksonville entertainer since 1985, his boundless repertoire and charm captivated audiences creating unforgettable memories for all who witnessed his incredible talents.
Murray was born in Jacksonville on July 28, 1949. He graduated from Paxon High School in 1967 and received a B.S. in Political Science from Princeton University in 1971. Following college, he became a real estate broker and developer while playing music on the side. After falling victim to the economy, he decided to pursue his first love, music, as a full time career. As a political science major who had a passion for America and her history, he once aspired to be a U.S. Senator. His family considered him a "walking encyclopedia" of knowledge about this subject and always wanted to hear his take on the current events. He was involved in establishing the First Coast Tea Party by emceeing events and providing music that had people up on their feet cheering. He wrote many songs about the state of America that inspired people, and made sure he voted before the Lord took him home.
Murray was a competitive swimmer and coach who taught hundreds of kids to swim. He was an avid golfer and long-time member of Sawgrass Country Club who loved being out on the course with his many friends. Murray never met a stranger; he was one-of-a-kind!
Murray is preceded in death by his parents Eunice Goff Harrington and Joseph Goff, Sr. He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Michele Akra Goff, the love of his life and soul mate who he says "completed" him; his sister Diane Maury (Ron); daughters Hillary Moribito (Tim), Shelby Goff, nine grandchildren, many nieces and nephews who adored their "Uncle Murr-man", and an endless number of friends and fans. The family also extends a special thank you to Dr. Louis Akra for his unwavering support and love.
Memorial services will be held on Friday, October 9, 1:00 p.m. at St. Paul's Catholic Church, 428 Second Avenue North, Jacksonville Beach. CDC Covid guidelines will be followed.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for JOSEPH GOFF
Sandi Gordon
October 1, 2024
Remembering with love that big contagious smile and the extraordinary man behind it.
Sandi Gordon
Sandi Gordon
October 2, 2023
Still missing you, my dear friend and sending love to Michelle and to my "Sis", Diane.
Marie Harrington
October 28, 2020
What a friendly, talented man who brightened the nights for so many of us when performed at Enza’s. He never held back his love of music and entertaining. Murray freely shared his gift with us all. Thank you Murray. I will miss you.
Deanie Mang
October 24, 2020
We will always remember the GREAT TIMES we shared. A true gentleman who shared his love of life & music with all. He worshipped his wife Michele with true love & loyalty. He never hesitated to show his love to his his entire family & friends. When We think of Murray we smile and say how lucky we were to make great memories we’ll treasure. We know your playing with the Angels. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you, LOVE, Doug & Deanie Mang
Kevin
October 15, 2020
Murray, you were more than a musical inspiration; you were a friend. The world has dimmed a bit...
Helen Eisenberg
October 10, 2020
Bob and I loved listening to Murray play and sing back when he was a regular at the Beach Club. So sorry to hear he passed...such a great, Christian, talented person..God bless you Michelle and your family.
Helen Eisenberg
October 10, 2020
Bob and I loved listening to Murray play and sing back when he was a regular at the Beach Club. So sorry to hear he passed...such a great, Christian, talented person..God bless you Michelle and your family.
Sandi Gordon
October 9, 2020
Murray, my "brother", I am heartbroken over losing you but am comforted by the legacy you leave behind. Very few people can claim that their life made an impact on the world. I've been thinking the fond memories I have of you since you were about eight...I would spend the weekend with the family and you would wake Diane and me up by playing a "boogie" on the piano. We promised not to tell your piano teacher. I chose the expressions "larger than life" and "contagious smile" only to find that they have already been used many times. The only thing you were never able to accomplish was teaching me how to dive...my feet just wouldn't cooperate. You were always the light in the room and will be missed beyond measure.
To Michelle, you were the love of his life. May that be a comfort in the coming difficult days. I'm praying for you and am so sorry for you profound loss.
Scott Alexander
October 9, 2020
So sorry to hear about Murray. Just found the obit in the Beaches Leader.
Murray was one of the most energetic and happy people that I know - he would go out of his way to make sure everyone was enjoying his music. A great entertainer.
I will miss him.
Linda White
October 9, 2020
What a wonderful man, genuine friend, Entertainer Extraordinaire - Murray's Music washed away the dust of everyday life and made us laugh and sing - the memories shared will never be forgotten.
Thank God for the Blessing of Murray. Love and Prayers to Michele and Family
"Death is a sorrow no one can heal,
Love is a memory no one can steal."
- Epitaph on an old tombstone in Ireland
Terri. & Bill Lawson
October 9, 2020
We will always love you and your gift of happiness through music! Terri & Bill Lawson
Sam Carter
October 9, 2020
On my birthday, October 3, Carol and I lost a wonderful neighbor and friend. Murr (as I called him) was the leader of our many driveway conferences. We will never forget our discussions - whether it was about our dogs, golf, family or politics!
His remarkable intellect and kindness made us proud to be his friend. We will miss him terribly.
Sam and Carol Carter
Mike Gainer
October 9, 2020
Rest in Peace Murray. I will never forget the golf outings complete with the crazy singing and fun. The political discussions were always spirited and fact filled too. You were truly a one of a kind guy and I will never forget you old friend. The concerts in heaven should be a joyous occasion.
Pam Southgate Henry
October 9, 2020
Many Happy and fun memories with the Music Man as well as real estate. A great soul. Blessings of comfort to Michelle and the family.
Thalia and Rob Stoddard
October 8, 2020
What an amazing Renaissance man Murray was! He was so well-read on many topics, and his musical ability was second to none! You are missed, Murray, and I’m sure you heard God say, “Well done, My good and faithful servant!” Rest In Peace, Murray, and rise in Glory!
An old, OLD student
October 8, 2020
19 years ago, Mr. Goff was one of our semi-regular substitute teachers at Jax Beach Elementary. I still sometimes think about what fun his lunchtime concerts were. Best wishes to family and friends.
Barbara Ray
October 8, 2020
What a great guy, great entertainer, husband and father . He will be missed very much ❤
Susan Kelley
October 8, 2020
He and his group played for our daughters wedding in 2007. It was wonderful. He will be missed.
Velora Bransford
October 7, 2020
Murray, I remember that little boy that played the piano, that lived next door and was part of our lives. Your music has touched so many lives. Now you are singing in heaven "It is Well With My Soul' God Bless You
Condolence to all the family.
Velora Bransford
neighbor
Ken Traube
October 7, 2020
The impact of Murray's music reaches all the way here in Maryland. One of the great highlights of my trips to Jacksonville to see my sister Carol was to go and hear Murray play. We only got to hear him a few times but after the first time, I wanted to go again and again. Not only was his piano and voice enjoyable, but he had a way of making me feel like he had known me all my life. The second time seeing him, he welcomed me like I was a long lost friend. I told my sister that every time I hear "Hello Again" by Neil Diamond, I can picture Murray with mike in hand walking around singing to the crowd. He would always do a duet with my sister Carol "That's all I ask of you" making our night extra special. His ability to touch the hearts of his fans was second to none.
Murray, you will be missed. Thank you for so many great memories. The world lost a wonderful treasure when you left us. Now heaven gets to have you. My thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends. Rest in Peace Murray.
Laura Barry
October 7, 2020
You brought a lot of joy to others over the years, myself included, with your song, your smile and you’re wicked sense of humor. I have more than a few fond memories of nights around your piano at different venues including the days of Murray and Greg. Even after I moved away from Jacksonville, when I visited I looked forward to spending and evening catching up with friends and you at the piano. You were one of a kind and will be missed.
Laurie and Jim Cordell
October 7, 2020
Don’t even know what to say other than he will be missed and remembered. Shared many wonderful times. Rest In Peace now sweet man.
Dorothy McDuffie
October 7, 2020
You will be missed. To a special person. Have fun playing and singing in haven
Sharon Whitaker Anderson
October 7, 2020
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Rosie & Bud Crandall
October 7, 2020
Just the thought of Murray warms the heart & brings a smile. As his obituary says, please count us in with his "endless number of friends and fans". God bless you, Michele.
Rita L'Herault
October 7, 2020
Murray was such a big part of my life! He will be missed by so many. Michele, my prayers are with you!
Walda and Mark Starkey
October 7, 2020
Murray will be missed by so many people. Everyone loved him.
Jerry W. Van Allen
October 7, 2020
Murray, Michele, and her sisters and I hit it off from the time that we met, at Ruth's Chris Steak House, in Memphis, TN. We were immediately friends and as close as family. When I came to visit them in Florida, they made me feel like family. I hated to leave and longed to return, to play the golf game that I could not finish, due to me breaking my ribs. I called and asked Murray for his guidance, on many different occasions. I will miss my friend dearly, but I look forward to seeing him again. Murray will always be in my heart.
Kelly Legler
October 6, 2020
Fond memories of singing along with Murray, talking politics. He was a man among men. Always a smile, and always took time to simply say “ Hi, how are you”. He is sorely missed. Love to Michelle and prayers during this difficult time.
David Maciejewski
October 6, 2020
You will be missed
Kay and Bill Grondzik
October 6, 2020
God bless you !! Wanted you to know Bill and I enjoyed listening to you play music at Santionis. It was a pleasure knowing you. Your fellow Paxon friends. Good man you are. Bill and Kay Grondzik
Tina
October 6, 2020
Murray was a great performer.. I have been to several advents that were so much better because he was there! Rest In Peace!
Lois and Wilbur Pike
October 6, 2020
A joy to hear and a greater joy to be his friend. Distance will never minimize our love for Murray and Michele.
Tom and Mary Peugh
October 6, 2020
Murray is up in heaven singing again with all the angels. God Bless You. Much love and prayers to all his families. We always loved his smile as well as his musical talents.
“T”erri Dreisonstok-Lawson
October 6, 2020
Murray, you’ll always have a place in my heart, a true Gentleman and scholar. Fly high with the Angels...an old friend from the Florida Café’.
Harmon Paulette
October 6, 2020
A beautiful couple!
Rob Storey
October 6, 2020
It was just in February that Murray told me about his upcoming fight with cancer. I never thought that just a few months later he would be gone. I'll miss talking with you about music and listening to you play and sing. Onward to that great gig in the sky.
Sheryl Fuller
October 6, 2020
Murray was the Best of the Best! His smile and laugh was infectious and his gift to entertain was beyond compare. His music and talent had a way of bringing people together to celebrate life, love, happiness and sometimes sorrow. I was blessed to know Murray and Michelle as the dynamic Customer First duo at First American. Little did I know that the same guy that would "move my cheese" would become such a treasured part of my life. All my thoughts, prayers and love go to Michelle and the entire family. RIP Murr-Man.....we will keep the music playing in your honor.
Frank Keasler
October 6, 2020
Jacksonville's "Piano Man" now walks streets of gold and gathers with the saints; now our friend sings a new song, an eternal voice raised in Glory to One worthy of all the Glory in heaven and earth. The heavenly choir now includes our friend, brother, father and husband and we have a lifetime of memories and love from the Piano Man!
David H Horne
October 6, 2020
Murray and I were best friends for 13 years from 1954 (when he was 5 and I was 4) until 1967 (when he graduated from Paxon to Princeton).
Every Christmas morning when we were children at 7 AM on the dot, Murray would be standing on my front doorstep and we would survey the bounty that Santa had brought us and we would spend the entire day, from dawn to dusk, playing with each other’s toys and then we would exchange the Christmas gifts we had for each other. My parents adored Murray and whatever he was involved in, I was allowed to do or participate in.
I cherished and envied my friend and I wanted to be just like him. We were inseparable. He ran for the office of the President of the Student Council at Paxon Jr. High and won. The next year I followed his lead. He became the President of the Sophomore Class and then the Junior Class at Paxon Sr. High and I followed him again. And his Senior year, he became the President of the Student Council and the following year, I kept the cycle unbroken. Whatever Murray did, I wanted to do. I didn’t need any greater motivation.
Wherever my family went Murray was sure to be invited, including trips out of town and on vacation. I wouldn’t even have to ask if Murray could come. Mom would just spontaneously say “I’ll call Eunice Goff to see if Murray can join us.” He became my parents de facto 4th son.
There was nothing Murray did that I didn’t want to do, as well. I idolized him and he was worthy of being idolized. He always had my back and I his. He was a natural leader, extremely bright, athletically gifted and musically talented; and he knew it, but he never showed the first sign of conceit or arrogance or narcissism. No, not Murray! He was never selfish with what he had and always, always genuinely interested in the affairs and accomplishments of his friends, attending functions and cheering his friends on and celebrating their accolades and recognition.
As part of the “Glen Street Gang”, (named for the street we lived on) all of my fondest childhood memories include Murray Goff front and center. What great and cherished nostalgia has attached itself to memories of Murray Goff and my lifelong friendships with the members of the GSG, many of whom came and went, but there was always Murray!
I saw him off and on over the years, but lost track of him in recent years, but I know he never changed. He would do anything for you if you were a friend in need and he had the kind of heart and personality that caused him to never meet a stranger that didn’t become a friend, so I imagine he was pretty much always on-call to help out someone.
My heart is broken now, learning that my friend is gone. We are all poorer for it and Heaven gets materially richer and a lot more fun.
— David Horne
Marie and Jerry Watson
October 6, 2020
It was over 30 years ago that Murray was playing at a venue in Jacksonville Beach, and my husband and I first met. We danced the night away listening to Murray's hits. From that day on, we loved to listen to Murray entertain, and became not only loyal followers, but good friends. We LOVED Murray. His smile would light up the room, and his music would get you on the dance floor. We learned so much more about Murray when he and Jerry would play golf and talk about life. Not only was he a scholar, but a man of many talents. We shall all miss Murray, his music, his wit, and his smile. Our thoughts and prayers are with Michele and family. Rest in peace Murray, we LOVE you.
Doug Pike
October 6, 2020
I play guitar and played with Murray for 2 years at Marker 32 on Beach Blvd. I enjoyed that very much.
Ronnie Thompson
October 6, 2020
RIP music man... You will be greatly missed !
Tobey & Grace Jones
October 6, 2020
Murray the man,
Your radiant smile, your infectious personality, your erratic golf game will be missed. We first met during our Sawgrass Saturday morning golf group. I was quick to learn that you had been playing a gig on Friday night and had not come home until well after midnight. You were a true Stallion, oh what fun we had. Grace and I would always look forward to your evening sing along at our beach club or other restaurants around town. When you were entertaining, all your audience was happy. What a wonderful gift you had and the joy you brought to so many.....a life well lived.
Our condolences to Michelle and your family.
Sheryll Stolarski
October 6, 2020
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Barbara Williams
October 6, 2020
Murray was indeed a shining star among his Paxon classmates. He was held in high regard by all. As an athlete, musician and a smart student, he was a friend to all. RIP to a good guy and may the family find peace in the days to come. His music lives on!
Buck and Betty Autrey
October 6, 2020
A great entertainer and friend who played at our 50th anniversary❤
Carol Crum
October 5, 2020
Michelle, Murray will be certainly missed by many. Since 2011 when Jerry and I met Murray, the memories of many wonderful evenings will be with me forever. His passing leaves a hole in my heart. May Murray Rest In Peace and my thoughts and prayers are with you and his family. God bless. ❤❤
Paulette Harmon
October 5, 2020
Murray was a friend from Biltmore Elementary, Paxon Jr and Paxon Sr school years. And reconnected with his music at different venues over many years. He always made me feel special when we saw him and sometimes, Michele. My sincere condolences and prayers to his family.
Murray was truly a great person and will be missed by all.
Love, Ralph & Paulette (Johnston) Harmon
David H. Horne
October 5, 2020
Oh, I wish I had known that Murray was struggling with illness! I would have been at his side doing anything I could to help him with it. Having recently gone through it myself and survived my battle with cancer, I feel I could have helped him. I could NOT have helped him survive it — I know that — but at least, I could have helped him deal with the stuff nobody talks about.
Murray and I were best friends for 13 years from 1954 (when he was 5 and I was 4) until 1967 (when he graduated from Paxon to Princeton).
Every Christmas morning when we were children at 7 AM on the dot, Murray would be standing on my front doorstep and we would survey the bounty that Santa had brought us and we would spend the entire day, from dawn to dusk, playing with each other’s toys and then we would exchange the Christmas gifts we had for each other. My parents adored Murray and whatever he was involved in, I was allowed to do or participate in.
I cherished and envied my friend and I wanted to be just like him. We were inseparable. He ran for the office of the President of the Student Council at Paxon Jr. High and won. The next year I followed his lead. He became the President of the Sophomore Class and then the Junior Class at Paxon Sr. High and I followed him again. And his Senior year, he became the President of the Student Council and the following year, I kept the cycle unbroken. I did it because Murray did it. I didn’t need any further motivation.
Wherever my family went Murray was sure to be invited, including trips out of town and on vacation. I wouldn’t even have to ask if Murray could come. Mom would just spontaneously say “I’ll call Eunice Goff to see if Murray can join us.” He became my parents de facto 4th son.
There was nothing Murray did that I didn’t want to do, as well. I idolized him and he was worthy of being idolized. He always had my back and I his. He was a natural leader; extremely bright and musically talented, and he knew it, but he never showed the first sign of conceit or arrogance or narcissism. No, not Murray! He was never selfish with what he had and always, always genuinely interested in the affairs and accomplishments of his friends, attending functions and cheering his friends on and celebrating their accolades and recognition.
As part of the “Glen Street Gang”, (named for the street we lived on) all of my fondest childhood memories include Murray Goff front and center. What great and cherished nostalgia has attached itself to memories of Murray Goff and my lifelong friendships with the members of the GSG, many of whom came and went, but there was always Murray!
I saw him off and on over the years, but lost track of him in recent years, but I know he never changed. He would do anything for you if you were a friend in need and he had the kind of heart and personality that caused him to never meet a stranger that didn’t become a friend, so I imagine he was pretty much always on-call to help out someone.
My heart is broken now, learning that my friend is gone. We are all poorer for it and Heaven gets materially richer and a lot more fun.
— David Horne
Rita Pickett-Ratcliffe
October 5, 2020
So happy to have reunited with my childhood friend, Murray, while he was playing the piano at one of our favorite restaurants. We all knew in elementary school that he was special. And special, he was. Murray will be greatly missed. Michele, I pray for peace for you and your family knowing that Murray is playing for all of the angels in heaven.
Donna Dingman
October 5, 2020
I have not seen Murray since our Paxon graduation in June, 1967. The wonderful memories our class shared have always given me strength and blessings because our class was so special in integrity and character and leadership. I remember Murray as our drum major and leader of our class in so many other ways. He was admired by everyone. His smile was contagious and he was highly respected for his talents and zeal for life.
Murray gave life his best and life gave us It’s best in Murray!
May He Rest In Peace in Gods presence and may all his loved ones find peace in his continued gift of love and meaningful legacy!
Donna Dingman
October 5, 2020
I have not seen Murray since our Paxon graduation in June, 1967. The wonderful memories our class shared have always given me strength and blessings because our class was so special in integrity and character and leadership. I remember Murray as our drum major and leader of our class in so many other ways. He was admired by everyone. His smile was contagious and he was highly respected for his talents and zeal for life.
Murray gave life his best and life gave us It’s best in Murray!
May He Rest In Peace in Gods presence and may all his loved ones find peace in his continued gift of love and meaningful legacy!
Donna Dingman
October 5, 2020
I have not seen Murray since our Paxon graduation in June, 1967. The wonderful memories our class shared have always given me strength and blessings because our class was so special in integrity and character and leadership. I remember Murray as our drum major and leader of our class in so many other ways. He was admired by everyone. His smile was contagious and he was highly respected for his talents and zeal for life.
Murray gave life his best and life gave us It’s best in Murray!
May He Rest In Peace in Gods presence and may all his loved ones find peace in his continued gift of love and meaningful legacy!
Donna Dingman
October 5, 2020
I have not seen Murray since our Paxon graduation in June, 1967. The wonderful memories our class shared have always given me strength and blessings because our class was so special in integrity and character and leadership. I remember Murray as our drum major and leader of our class in so many other ways. He was admired by everyone. His smile was contagious and he was highly respected for his talents and zeal for life.
Murray gave life his best and life gave us It’s best in Murray!
May He Rest In Peace in Gods presence and may all his loved ones find peace in his continued gift of love and meaningful legacy!
Harmon Paulette
October 5, 2020
Pam
October 5, 2020
Family of Murray!
The year Murray was Drum Major I was Head Majorette so we became friends! I use to love to enter Band room at Paxon and hear him playing Ragtime music on piano! If my memory is correct I believe he played by ear not music sheets!
Rip
Becky Rogers
October 5, 2020
I worked with Murray and always loved him.He will be missed.Im praying for Peace and Comfort for all his family..
James H. Bransford Jr.
October 5, 2020
Even at a very young age Murray was so talented. He spend hours at the piano practicing. We has kids spent many hours in the sand lot next to his playing ball games. Murray was a great person at an early age.
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