James Roy Goodearle

JAMES ROY GOODEARLE passed away on Wednesday, the 24th of May, 2006 surrounded by his loving family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold Lee Goodearle and Mary Griggs Goodearle and his stepdaughter, Catherine Anne Gaines Hillyer. Roy is survived by many who loved and treasured his life; his loving wife, Mary Anne; his children; Sarah Smith and husband Curt of Rochester, New York, Ellen Brown and husband Craig; Harold Goodearle and wife Melissa; and Doris Funderburk and husband Kevin all of Houston; his sister, Mary Jo Branscomb and husband Harvie of Corpus Christi, Texas. Roy is also survived by his stepchildren, Alta Asmar and husband Charles of Chevy Chase, Maryland, Sherwood Gaines and wife Sally of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Greg Gaines and wife Jean of Houston and Julie Gaines and fiancé Terry Norman of Houston; his beloved twenty-three grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews as well as countless friends around the country. Roy was born in Augusta, Georgia the 14th of December, 1925. He spent most of his youth in Dallas, graduated from Highland Park H.S. and, at the age of 16 enrolled at Rice University (his guidance counselor telling him he'd be home by Christmas). Roy graduated with a degree in Chemical Engineering leaving him with a life long love of his alma mater. He went on to receive a Masters of Science from the University of Houston. During his successful career in oil and gas exploration, he was a member of the Society of Independent Professional Earth Scientists and CEO of Thunderbay Corporation. Roy also had a passion for politics and took a break from his career to serve as a Chief of Advance for President Nixon, Chief of Staff to Vice President Agnew then later as Deputy Secretary for the Department of Oil and Gas in the Interior Department. He garnered tremendous respect and made many deep and lasting friendships during his years in Washington. His sense of humor and laugh were legendary; as were his deep and wide-ranging intellect and wisdom. He was a longtime member of the Houston Country Club, the "R" Club and the Luby's Group. For the last 30 years, he also carried the message of 12-step hope and recovery to many. However, Roy's greatest legacy will be his commitment to his family and friends. He supported them tirelessly and lovingly, always caring about their lives and guiding them to do their very best. His willingness to encourage and support others in the hallmark of a life well lived and he will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. Following graveside services at Memorial Oaks Cemetery, a memorial service celebrating Roy's life will be held at eleven o'clock in the morning on Tuesday, the 30th of May, 2006 in the old church of St. Martin's Episcopal Church, 717 Sage Road with The Rev. Dr. Laurence A. Gipson and The Rev. John R. Bentley, Jr. officiating. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be given to a charity of your choice.