Robert William Goodling Jr.

Robert William Goodling (Jr.) of Charlotte, NC went home to be with Jesus on December 16, 2025. He was 55 years old. Rob was a devoted and beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, son- and brother-in-law, and friend.

Born on September 2, 1970, to Bob and Carol Goodling, Rob was raised in Hannacroix, NY and loved exploring the woods and fields that surrounded his home – not on quiet, contemplative walks, but on motorcycles and snowmobiles. From the start, he liked things that moved fast and made noise. He also loved sports and played baseball, soccer, and basketball, with hopes of playing in the NBA one day. When he realized that was unlikely, he focused on soccer and played while attending Houghton College. He cherished his four years at Houghton and the friendships he made both on and off the soccer field. After earning his BA in Business from Houghton in 1992, he began a career in banking at MBNA, eventually earning his MBA from the University of Delaware, and going on to work at Lowe's Financial, Bank of America, Visa, and Wells Fargo.

Rob met Britton at Houghton, and they married in 1994. He often told people that he knew she was "the one" because she made him want to be a better man, and he became the best husband she could have hoped for. As he said many times, they were a great team, building a beautiful life and creating a home that welcomed people in and made them feel like family. They raised four children together, first in Newark, DE, then in Charlotte, NC, and Rob was a devoted father-involved, intentional, and present, always ready for a "dadventure." He loved what his kids loved, invested in their interests, and encouraged their dreams, from Broadway musicals to gymnastics, soccer, piano, drums, and guitar. His enthusiasm gave them confidence, and they all describe him as their biggest fan, because he was. He was intensely proud of each of them, enjoyed them fiercely, and loved them unconditionally.

Though his family was his priority, Rob was grateful for the communities he was part of and the relationships he built through work, church, and soccer, especially the Charlotte Eagles. He loved to connect with people, hear about their interests, offer advice and encouragement, and celebrate their accomplishments. He loved to make people laugh, often with stories of his ridiculous escapades. He loved loud entrances and louder music. He loved learning new things, working with his hands, and challenging himself. Most importantly, he loved the Lord and was grateful for the life he was given and grateful for the hope of a better life to come, for he was certain that all the joy he had already experienced was "just the warm-up" for eternity.

Rob is survived by his bride of 31 years, Britton Goodling; their children Ellen Sporko (and husband Gregory), Jacob Goodling, Tatum Goodling (and fiancé Luke Foster), and Will Goodling; his parents Bob and Carol Goodling; his sisters Christie French (Nathan) and Sherry Hall (Quintin); and many beloved sisters-and brothers-in-law, and nieces and nephews. He has been reunited in heaven with his daughter, Perry Goodling.

Knowing and loving Rob was an honor and a privilege. Being loved by him was an incredible gift. He will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered for his joy, enthusiasm, optimism, courage, and strength. He lived in the truth of Joshua 1:9, and those who loved him will endeavor to do the same: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."

A private graveside ceremony for family will take place on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Forest Lawn East, followed by a Celebration of Life service for all who knew Rob at 1:00pm at Christ Covenant Church (800 Fullwood Ln., Matthews, NC 28105).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Charlotte Eagles.