J.C. "Professional Golfer" Goosie

GOOSIE, J.C., 'Professional Golfer', 73, of Plant City passed away January 16, 2003 after a short illness. J.C. was born in Knoxville, TN but lived in the Florida area for many years. He is survived by his beloved wife of 29 years, Vicki; sons, Larry Baldwin and wife Karen, Rick Baldwin and wife Charlotte, and Toni Baldwin and wife Sherry; daughter, Teresa Brockman and husband Gary; sons, J.C., Jr., Jeffrey, and Joey Goosie; two sisters, Jewell Needham and Gail Nance and husband Jack; seven grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. J.C. served his country in the United States Air Force from 1948 - 1952 attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. J.C.'s professional golf career spanned over 50 years. He played the PGA Tour and the Senior/Super Senior PGA Tour. He was a lifetime member of the PGA and in 1984, 'The Goose' was inducted into the Knoxville Sports Hall of Fame. Additionally, J.C. owned and operated the Space Coast Golf Tour for 25 years earning him the title of 'Father of the Mini Tours' where thousands of golfers began their professional careers, many of whom became top players of the PGA Tour. J.C. as a young man, 'stood the cream of America's golf professionals on their ears' as quoted by Sports Illustrated, February 13, 1958, and he continued to play professional golf until the time of his death. J.C. will be deeply missed by his family and many friends throughout the country. Memorial services will be held Monday, January 20, 2003 at 7PM from Hopewell Funeral Home Chapel with Mr. Gary Ogden officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to LifePath Hospice, 3010 W. Azeele Street, Ta, Florida 33609. Hopewell Funeral Home & Cemetery (813) 737-3128. Family owned and Operated.