John E. Gooch

The Lord called John E. Gooch home, 93, on January 16, 2024 following a lengthy illness. John was born in Morgantown, WV. John was one of 16 children raised in Pittsburgh, a town that he loved. John earned a Bachelor's degree from Benedict College in South Carolina. John served in the Air Force during the Korean War. John became a community organizer which led him to earn a Masters degree in social work from the University of Pittsburgh. John spent his life living in Pittsburgh, New Orleans, Pontiac Michigan, and Oberlin, Ohio.

John was a long time member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Lorain where he served as Deacon for over 30 years and a member of the men's choir. John was commonly known as "Coach" to many as a football coach of over 60 years. John's hobbies included watching the Steelers, playing golf, listening to the Temptations and Billy Eckstine, and was an avid reader. John is preceded in death by his parents, George and Laura Gooch, and sons Melvin Christopher and John Edward II. John is survived by his wife of 45 years, Cheryl, his daughter Laura and grandson, Jordan and a host of nieces and nephews.

Memorial service will be held at 11am February 3, 2024 at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Lorain, OH. Online condolences may be made to www.cowlingfuneralhomeoh.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Benedict College at https://benedict.edu/give/online-giving/