Alex Patterson (Pat) Goodhew

Alex Patterson "Pat" Goodhew, age 85, a lifelong resident of Birmingham, Alabama, and a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2025.

Pat was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John William Goodhew, Jr. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Claire Birchfield Goodhew; daughters, Susan Amelia (Amee) Goodhew and Virginia Blair Goodhew Plott (Bobby); grandsons, Robert Patterson Plott and Thomas Snow Plott; brothers, John William Goodhew, III (Joan) and Dixon Aubrey Goodhew (Ellen); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and longtime friends.

A native of Birmingham, Pat was the middle of three close knit brothers. Pat graduated from Birmingham University School, where he served as captain of the football team and was awarded The Rushton Cup. He continued his education at Auburn University, where he was a member of the Kappa Alpha Order, before enlisting in the United States Army. During his service, he worked in the Pentagon during the Cuban Missile Crisis. After his military service, Pat completed his education at Jacksonville State in 1966 where he was the Chairman of the Student Conference on American Government.

Pat met the love of his life, Claire, while enjoying an Alabama vs. Auburn game. Despite their passionate support for opposing teams, they would share a joyful marriage of 56 years. Pat's professional career in sales spanned many years, where his love of meeting new people helped him forge lifelong friendships. He held leadership positions with various companies, always bringing enthusiasm and was recognized with many awards including President of the Southern Society for Coatings Technology.

A dedicated member of Canterbury United Methodist Church, Pat served in many roles including on the Administrative Board, Usher Captain, Counter at the contemporary service, and as a long-standing volunteer for Encore. He and Claire were founding members of the Carolina Shag Club of Birmingham where they enjoyed dancing together every week.

In his younger years, Pat raced sports cars but traded this hobby in for sailing as he raised his family. Known for his quick wit, sense of humor, and storytelling, his greatest joys came from being surrounded by family and friends. Pat loved people. He was genuinely kind to everyone he met and had a zest for life.

A memorial service will be held at Canterbury United Methodist Church on Saturday, August 23, at 11 a.m., with a visitation prior to the service beginning at 9:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to The Thomas Plott Foundation, PO Box 2649, Tuscaloosa, AL 35403. The foundation is dedicated to funding research for Cystic Fibrosis.