Russell Thomas "Tom" Goldner

Russell Thomas (Tom) Goldner, of Ocala, FL passed away on November 8th, 2025 after a hard fought battle against cancer. He passed in his home surrounded by his loving wife of 39 years Cheryl Rapp Goldner, his sister, Carol Goldner Hoyle, and his lifelong friend LeAnne White. Throughout his life, Tom's faith in Christ carried him and guided his steps. Those who knew Tom well know he spent every morning with his Bible and in prayer before he would start his day. No matter the circumstances of his life; Tom always walked with a peace and a strength that could only have come from his immense faith.

Tom was born in Elkins, WV, on December 21st, 1960. He graduated from Lincolnton High School in 1979 and from North Carolina State University (Go Pack!) in 1983 with a Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Engineering. He later went on to receive his MBA from Campbell University. He had a long, successful, career in management that took him all over the world. He was a die hard Wolfpack fan, a proud Eagle Scout, an avid fisherman, golfer, and a man who was happiest anywhere that he was surrounded by his wife, kids, and grandson.
To most, Tom seemed a man of few words; always thoughtfully listening and taking in those around him. At home, though; he was the driving force behind his family's 'silly' nature. He would send daily 'dad jokes' or riddles to the group chat, and often ventured to create his own that were impossible to solve because nobody's mind worked quite like Tom's! Years ago he was blessed with the nickname "Russell Pickle;' a name that would take on a life of its own as the house slowly filled with pickle themed blankets, trinkets, stuffed dolls, and baby onesies. His goofy personality was the perfect compliment to his thoughtful and analytical mind. One moment he would be in deep conversation with his kids about finances or life lessons he wanted to impart and the next he would be donning a shirt covered in 'Three Stooges' quotes or Cookie Monster while he sang 'Blood on the Saddle' in his deepest voice over and over until you begged him to stop! His wisdom, light heartedness, and unconditional love for his family is a gift that will always be cherished, and can never be replaced.

Tom was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Thomas Goldner.
He is survived by his loving wife, Cheryl Rapp Goldner; his Daughter, Brooke Goldner Schultheis; his son, Hunter Thomas Goldner; his daughter, Taylor Elizabeth Goldner; his son-in-law, Matthew Craig Schultheis; his grandson, Mason Craig Schultheis; his father, James Russell Goldner; his sister, Carol Goldner Hoyle, and his brother, David Huntley Goldner.

A receiving of the family will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, from 3:00pm-5:00pm, at First Baptist Church of Ocala.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Cancer Society in Tom's name.