Jeffery Jerome Goodpaster

Jeffery "Jeff" Jerome Goodpaster was born on July 18, 1956, and passed away peacefully at home after a long fight with pancreatic cancer on August 20th, 2025. The days preceding his death were filled with love, and a house full of family and friends. Until his passing, he remained loving, and maintained his remarkable sense of humor. Despite his illness, he never hesitated to say "absolutely not" when he didn't agree with something, even during his final moments.

Jeff was born to Jackie Goodpaster Cooke in Harlan County Ky, but traveled and lived abroad while serving in the United States Air Force. He eventually landed in Lexington, Ky, to be closer to family. Jeff was the oldest of 4 siblings, Michael Goodpaster (Lolita), Carrie Cox (Ed), and Jon Goodpaster. Although losing Jon several years ago, Jeff remained very close with Mike and Carrie. Dorane and Teresa Combs, although cousins, were more like siblings as well. Jeff was fortunate to have such a large and supportive family. Being with family to share a meal and stories was some of his most cherished moments. The food was always delicious, and the laughter always endless.

Jeff started his career path volunteering for the U.S Air Force and served as an aircraft mechanic. After honorable discharge, he moved to Maryland where he worked at Patuxent Air Force base as a mechanic for helicopters and other aircraft. After his time with Patuxent Air Force Base, he then returned home to run the family business of Neal Tire Company per his father's request. Other notable careers were Dixie Cup and running the other family business, CJ's Upholstery.

Jeff loved classic rock, fishing, and stand up comedy, but what he loved more than anything was spending time with his loved ones. When there wasn't a family gathering going on, he was spending time with his mom (Jackie) his aunt (Carm), or his brother (Mike). Jackie and Mike lived around the corner from him, and aunt Carm was a frequent visitor.

The great love of Jeff's life is his beautiful wife, Marilyn Goodpaster. He met Marilyn while stationed at Clark Airbase in the Philippines, and the rest is history. Marilyn is a strong and loving woman who truly did everything she could to make sure Jeff was comfortable until the very end.

Jeff's humor was unprecedented, and always made an entrance. Jeff's classic "who wants a beating" greeting was his trademark. Family members would all point to one another, but often he would answer "Desi does, Desi does!"

Jeff was a blessed father to his three children Hope (Steven), Patrick, and Nikki (John). His role as papaw to Alex, Gabby, Sam, Zoe (Hope and Steven Johnson), Meadow (Patrick and Leila), and Cameran, Jackson, and Jameson (Nikki and John Ryles) filled his home with an abundance of love. His role as dotting uncle to Dessirie and Zachary (Michael and Lolita Goodpaster), Michael ( Ed and Carrie Cox), and Michele (Dorane and Teresa Combs) made us all feel special.

He is survived by his mother Jackie Goodpaster Cooke, Memaw Carmelita Rose, Brother Michael Goodpaster (Lolita), Sister Carrie Cox (Ed), and Teresa Combs (Dorane). He is also survived by his children, grandchildren, and his sweet puppies Parker and Penelope, whom he adored.

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 30th at 4pm in one of his favorite places, his Brother Mike's back yard. Please write down and bring your favorite stories of him so that we may collect the stories to share with those who closest to him. Casual dress attire as Jeff would've requested. Join us at 133 Garrett Avenue Lexington, Ky 40504 for laughs, love, and remembrance.

You will never be forgotten and we will always love you "very many"