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Jerry Goodman Obituary
Visitation is 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. today, and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday at Croxford Funeral Home. Funeral services are 11 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home, with cremation to follow and interment at a later date.
Survivors include the love of his life, Shari Higgins of Great Falls; his mother, Opal (Murphy) Goodman; sisters Reneé (Carl) Gruner of Great Falls,;and Shari's sister, Judy Higgins of Great Falls. Surviving nieces and neph-ews, include Jessica Goodman-Gruner, Thomas Gruner and Michael Ferda.
Jerry was preceded in death by his father, Tom Goodman; maternal grandparents Jim and Emma Murphy; and paternal grandparents Shelby and Mae Goodman.
Jerry was born in Billings on Sept. 8, 1965, a son of Thomas Goodman and Opal (Murphy) Goodman, and was raised in Belt, where he graduated from high school in 1983.
Jerry had several cooking jobs prior to his employment with National Electronics Warranty. He was a frequent visitor and resident entertainer of the Benefis Extended Care Center of East One, where they thoroughly enjoyed each other. Jerry enjoyed fishing, music, guitar, animals, singing and writing. He was an avid gadget collector.
He enjoyed spending time with - and cooking for - family, friends and loved ones. He will be missed by his furry little "chil-dren," Princess and Kosmo. He left behind many friends, cousins, aunts, uncles and many more people who loved him, including his fishing family, Shari, Suz-anne, Tom and Doug.
With Jerry's passing, we are reminded that life is to be celebrated. His laughter and personality lit up any room he was in. Jerry will be most remem-bered for his devotion and love of his mother Opal; the love of his life, Shari; his sister, Reneé; his niece, Jessica; his nephews, Thomas and Michael; his sister-in-law, Judy; brother-in-law Carl, and his many friends and loved ones. Jerry's dream was for everyone (friends and family) to get along and live life to the fullest. We will miss him every day, and he will remain in our hearts forever.
Since Jerry loved tie-dye, please feel free to wear anything tie-dyed to the service. Memorials are suggested to the Great Falls Humane Society or to the Belt Food Bank.
Condolences may be posted online at www.croxfordfuneralhome.com and/or www.gftribune.com/obituaries.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jerry Goodman
Maryiah Kline
June 17, 2024
It's been a min since you passed my friend and all I can say Is I still miss you as much as the day you went home, I have now survived two brain aneurysms and I know you had some help with that, thanks for always having my back!! Miss & Love you always Jerbear!!
Bradley Beck
June 17, 2022
I still think about Jerry everyday and miss him like crazy! His big booming voice and his loving and caring attitude ! I just know he is doing well on the otherside just like he did at everything in life he did <3
danita hadford
July 27, 2011
sad and shocked to hear of the news, Jer was great at NEW!
Tom
July 23, 2011
Jerry, when we had our cook-outs, sitting around the firepit, you always made it more enjoyable playing your guitar and singing us tunes, instead of going home we stayed most the night and then went fishing the next day(and not in the morning.) I love you and am missing you a whole bunch. Fish with you again... SOMEDAY BUDDY!!!
Troy Larsgard
July 23, 2011
I will always remember Jerry's kindness, good natured personality, warmness, and genuineness. Although I saw Jerry only a few times over the course of many years, I always felt like he listened to me and cared what I had to say. He was also very resourceful and full of good ideas. My heart goes out to Shari, Jerry's mom and all his loved ones.
Suzanne
July 23, 2011
I will always remember Jer for his gentle nature and giving personality. There was never a person such as he and there never will be again. I will miss him everyday. God speed Jerry. I love you always!
The LaBaughs
July 23, 2011
Sending you all our love, support and best wishes during this difficult time.
July 22, 2011
From the Love of your Life!
July 20, 2011
July 20, 2011
The Collins
July 20, 2011
LOVE, MOM
Judy
July 20, 2011
Jer, Thanks for being such a big part of my life, I only wish it could have gone on forever...There are so many things to miss about you your silly grin, sense of humor, kindness, your talent in music, have to mention cooking, and...just you!! We all had lots of good times. You were like the brother I never had. I know you will watch over Shari, Just like you did when you were with us. Jer you will always be in my heart..LOVE YA!!!
Laura Jaderholm
July 20, 2011
Jerry touched so many lives, including mine. He was interesting to talk to because be knew something about everything. I will miss our summer visits, but I'm grateful for the memories. May God bless all of Jerry's family and friends during this difficult time
Rhea Alberts
July 19, 2011
My heart goes out to you Shari, Judi, Shari's family and Jerry's family and friends. I am soooo very sorry for your loss. May God give you the strength to survive this very sad and difficult time in your lives. I send you all my LOVE and hope that it will help with the pain you are feeling. Unfortunatley I never had the pleasure of meeting Jerry. From all I've read here his life needs to be celebrated. He was very loved and was a wonderful man. Thinking of all of you and you are in my prayers. Much love and peace to all of you.
Allison Chapman
July 19, 2011
Jerry you were one of the best people I have ever known. It was an honor to have known you. In the words of Billy Joel, "Only the good die young"
Karen Larsgard
July 19, 2011
Dear Shari,
Thank you for bringing wonderful Jerry into our lives! How I enjoyed his pleasant, easy-going personality. He made every conversation interesting, no matter the topic. What a great storyteller! I appreciated his example of accepting people where they are in life, his example of how one treats his Mother. Like all who knew him, I enjoyed his amazing cooking and am thankful for his immeasurable willingness to help others. I am grateful you found someone who loves you unconditionally and so completely. My wish for you is that you will go forward and live your life the way Jerry wants you to live it. With your own determination, the love and support of your family and friends, and God's help, this is possible. I love you. Love, Karen
Shirley Kelley
July 19, 2011
Jerry was a wonderful person. He was my computer man, my printer man, --anything I needed or wanted, he was there to help me. He lit up any room whether he was coming or going. He was the life of the party when we went out to eat, or even when we were home. He made me laugh (and I don't laugh much). He was my daughter's best friend and the love of her life, the son I never had. Judy misses him almost as much as Shari. It will never be the same going to Borries, the Cattleman Cut, Appleby's and Cody Bill's without Jerry, or at Shari, Jerrry, and Judy's house. There is an empty space in our hearts that can't be filled. Only the Lord can fill that place. May God bless you all. With much love, Mom (Shirley)
July 19, 2011
LOVE YOU FOREVER and ALWAYS!!!
Kosmo and Princess ???
Doug Mehan
July 19, 2011
To my best friend my fishing buddy my brother, your name says it all you truely are a Good-man. Jerry words cannot describe how much you will be missed, nor how much I miss you, May you protect and watch over the Higgins sisters,love and miss you.
Maryiah Kline
July 11, 2011
To this very day i still ask my self really Jer Bear no way, it's sooo hard to beleive that your gone and no longer here to see that big smile and to hear you laugh!! Everyday you will be missed, loved and always thought of!!! Missing you forever and ever Jer bear!! Love ya buddy and i'll see you on the other side some day, until then i know your looking out for all of us!!! ;-)
Helen Johnston
July 1, 2011
Shari, Judy, and Jerry's family,
My heart goes out to you all during this most difficult time. I was so shocked and sorry to hear of Jerry's passing. May all of your memories help carry you thru. You have all definitely been on my mind and in my prayers lately. Wished I could have been at the service. Take care of yourselves.
Margo Mazzetta
July 1, 2011
Shari, I just found out about Jerry leaving this world. He is in a better place, watching over you from above. My prayers & thoughts are with you.
Linda Durham
June 30, 2011
Shari,
I am so sorry to hear about Jerry. We worked together for a long time and he was a great worker. Anytime Jerry would do something that was asked of him, it was never half done. It was always done above and beyond. Jerry is one of the finest men I have ever known. Rest in peace my friend.
Teresa Lee
June 29, 2011
JerBear NEW will not be the same with out your smile, funny, crazy ways. Your presense is missed greatly. I hope Cosmo and the hairless thing are ok... can see him smiling about that. We Miss you Bud, the light that could turn a Monday into a Friday.God Bless you Shari,Mom,and family thanks for sharing him with us. With love,
June 26, 2011
Jerry's Loved Ones: Please accept our sympathy at this time of your loss. It sounds like Jerry was a man of many talents, lived life to the fullest, and was a dedicated worker and friend. May you find consolation, strength and support from God, and may you know the real Presence of the Holy Spirit in the days ahead. We are praying for you.
Calvary Chapel of Great Falls
Matthew 28:20
brenda fuller
June 25, 2011
jerry will truly be missed..he always made me feel welcome n always kept me smiling...opal is like a second mom to me so i adopted jerry n renee as family also...im glad i have all my yearbooks so i can look back n see jerry's smilin face..i know he is watchin over all of his family n many many friends...
JANET BEATTIE
June 25, 2011
I AM SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS OF SUCH A GOOD PERSON AS JERRY IS AND WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERD FOR HIS BIG HEART AND KIND SOUL ALWAYS THERE IF NEEDED WILLING TO HELP AND SHARE LAUGHS.VERY SAD LOSS AND WILL BE MISSED BY ALL WHO WORKED AND KNEW HIM.
Beth Pardun Rood
June 25, 2011
Opal and Renee....I am so sorry to hear about Jerry, he was such a sweet and kind person. He always made people laugh, had a heart of gold and his musical talent was a gift. You are in our prayers!
Greg & Beth Rood (Pardun)
Richie Kapphan
June 25, 2011
I am completely saddened to hear about the ol Jer Bear. I can remember sitting real close to Jerry as we worked together at NEW. We laughed everyday we worked together as we shared stories. The one memory that sticks out to me is when he came to my house when he found out that I was a guitar player, Jerry then played me a song he had written about a homeless girl. It was one of the most beautiful songs I had ever heard. I asked him to write it down for me to learn to play and he did. God Bless you Jerry! Shari, be strong, Im sorry for this tragic time in life!
Dana Swanson
June 25, 2011
Jerry was one of a kind..Always greeted you with a smile..kind to everyone he met..I am thankful for the memories of playing Wii, bbq and listening to him play his guitar..My thoughts and prayers to Shari and his family. He will be greatly missed.
Karol Stack
June 24, 2011
What a shock to hear of Jerry's passing. I last saw him with Opal at the cafe in Belt a few years ago. I can remember him as a younger man (boy). He was always such a nice, sweet young man. I know nothing can be said or done to fill the void you feel at his loss, but you should only remember all the prescious times spent together. My love to all of you.
Judy Petley
June 24, 2011
Jerry was a good hearted soul. When I first started working at N.E.W. he was a Lowe's Corporate Lead that Scared the Crap out of me when he called me on my phone and Stated,"I just got a call from the Corporate office regarding you." All I could say was, "What did I do this time." In his upbeat playful manner he proceeded to tell me that I did good and Laughter ensued. Every time we saw each other since we had laughter in our words and never did I see him without a smile on his face. Your presence will not be forgotten and I will always carry you in my heart. Heaven opened its pearly gates and just accepted a beautiful angel name Jerry. Every now and again send down your laughter to all mankind.
sheri yost
June 24, 2011
im so incredibly sorry for your loss, he will truely be missed by everyone at N.E.W. i saw him all time time before work, and he always made me laugh.. always!!!
June 24, 2011
Opal & family,My heart goes out to you. I know how dear Jerry was to you My prayers are with you. God bless you & help you through this troubled time. Love Alice Sundberg Martin Glasgow, Mont.
June 24, 2011
I have so many great memories of Jerry - and am shocked and saddened by this news. My prayers go out to those he leaves behind, especially Opal (another mother of mine). May God grant you all relief in your mourning, and fond memories of Jerry until you are reunited with him.
Julie Goodman-Deshner
June 24, 2011
In honor of precious memories we shared, cousin Jerry; I wish you eternal peace. A true blessing & light on this side, Lord, bring your comforting presence to those missing Jerry's touch, and ask him to give Grandpa a big hug from me, too.
Laurie Wagner
June 24, 2011
Jerry was a true friend and a great co-worker. He always was easy to talk to and he always would help anyone in need. He will be missed. We all miss you Jerry
Alisa Leathers
June 24, 2011
Jerry will truly be missed. He was always nice to me when I worked at NEW and he brought a smile to every face he met.
Alisa Leathers
June 24, 2011
Jerry was a good man and always made me smile when I saw him at work every day at NEW. I also had a love for tie dye myself and I felt like I could relate to him. He was always nice to me and touched alot of people. May Jerry Rest in Peace.
Adam Pehl
June 23, 2011
Jerry you will be greatly missed. You were a mentor to me from the start of my career and I thoroughly enjoyed the times we got to spend together. You have taught me so much and helped shape me into the person I am today. Your loss will be felt by all. Thoughts and prayers to your family.
Thomas Dowtin
June 23, 2011
Jerry was a true friend without condition. I will miss him always, and will never forget the times we shared.
linda siliezar
June 23, 2011
Jerry was a cool guy that everyone loved. He will be missed so much by his friends and family both in his home life as in his work relationships. Peace Jerry.
Jamie Roberts
June 23, 2011
Oh, I was so sorry to hear about Jerry. He was so much fun when I worked at NEW. This was tragic news. I am so sorry to his family, friends, Shari, and the dogs. Jerry will be missed...
casey ayers
June 23, 2011
I have such fond memories of Jer. All of the stories he used to tell me and the laughter he brought. What a kind man. You are a force, and will not soon be forgotten. Take care, and hug my girl if you see her up there :)
Melissa Reavis
June 23, 2011
Jerry you will be so missed so much.You were my inspiration while I was working side by side with you at N.E.W. and will always be. Love you and hugs...
Brad Beck
June 23, 2011
I will miss Jerry everyday, he was truly one of my best friends. He was my friend simply because he wanted to be, not due to any prior obligations. His heart was amazing and his big booming voice still echoes in my head. I can say that I truly feel an immense amount of pain with his passing and my sincerest prayers and thoughts go out to Sherri and the Goodman family. This is a hard time for us all and I hope that his memories can surround us like a blanket to bring comfort. Thanks for everything you did for me, and great times we had Jerry.I will never forget the lessons you have taught me, and all the laughs.I am now no longer afraid to die, because I know that you will be there smiling and ready to show me around. Knowing you was a blessing.
Connie Croskrey
June 23, 2011
I had the wonderful pleasure of working with Jerry at NEW. He always had a bright smile for everyone and was easy to talk to. He will be deeply missed in our NEW Family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. God Bless. Connie Croskrey
Jessica Goodman- Gruner
June 23, 2011
Uncle Jerry, I will miss you so much you were the one I went to when I wanted someone to talk to, my confidante I will miss you so so much.
Max Rubino
June 23, 2011
I loved Jerry or as we called him Jer. He was very nice and generous. He told me many funny stories the last time I saw him. I had a wii tennis tournament with him. He won every match except 1 ( I think he let me win). I miss him very much.
June 23, 2011
I worked with Jerry at NEW and I was very sorry to hear of his death. He was a wonderful person. I am so very sorry for your loss. Terry Montgomery
June 23, 2011
Aunt Opal and Renee and family my prayers and thoughts reach out to you at this time of a great loss in your family. Jerry was a great person with a big heart. I have a lot of great memories to keep with me.. Keep a smile on your face.. Love Stacey(Brown)Peterson
Mary Vaskey - Kirby
June 23, 2011
Dear Opal and Renee',
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. My sincere condolences on the passing of Jerry.
denise bury
June 23, 2011
Shari, I am so very sorry for your tremendous loss. Please know that I am here if you need anything. You are in my constant prayers and thoughts. All my love, Denise Bury
Jaime Baker
June 23, 2011
Jerry was a wonderful man. I never saw him in a bad mood. Shari, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Also with Judy, and the rest of the family. I will always have wonderful memories of Jerry. God bless you all.
Judy Goodman - Schroeder & family
June 23, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
June 23, 2011
May God Bless & Keep you all in this time sorrow. With Love Cara Ireland
June 23, 2011
To Shari and all the friends and family, I am very sorry for your loss. Jerry was a good man. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Deloris
Bill Mital
June 23, 2011
To one of my best friends, a man who had a heart as big as anyone i know. i will miss you and all of the things we did together from high school until now. I considered you one of our family and i hope opal and renee will be o.k. and celebrate what you were and did in life. love you all
Bill Mital
Bruce & Cheryl Barfett
June 23, 2011
What I am feeling right now is hard to put into words. Jerry was such a creative person, and I am so sorry he died. I will keep you in my prayers.
Clay Deshner
June 23, 2011
Aunt Opal, Carl and Renee I am very saddened to hear of the passing of Jerry. My condolences and prayers are with you. with love, Clay Deshner and family
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