James Leonard Goodson

1941 - 2024

James Leonard Goodson
James L. Goodson, Sr. of West Haven, CT passed away on Tuesday, August 20, 2024. He was the devoted and loving husband of Elaine Huckaby Goodson for 49 years. He was born to James Goodson and Loretta Robinson Goodson on October 2, 1941. He was born and raised in Ansonia, CT and graduated from Ansonia High School in June of 1959. While in high school he excelled as a three-sport athlete, which helped to foster his passion and love for sports. After high school James proudly served in the US Marine Corps and received an honorable discharge in 1966. Upon his return home he was employed by Gulf Oil, and later worked for Telemedia Cable until his retirement.
Moose, as he was affectionately known to family and friends, was very committed to serving and giving back to his community. He served as a youth coach for the New Haven Ravens for many years. During that time, he met and mentored many young men, and helped them develop skills on and off the field. In his later years he also served as a referee for the Pop Warner Football League. He was a proud member of East Rock Lodge #141 of I.B.P.O.E of W, where he served faithfully for many years. He attended Immanuel Missionary Baptist Church and sang soulfully in the Men's Choir. He also participated in the University of Immanuel Youth Mentoring Program.
In addition to his wife, left to cherish his memory are his children, Jaryn (Robert) Travers of Hamden, CT, James, Jr. of New London, and Jason (Tiffany) Goodson of Columbia, MD. He was the proud and loving Papa to Robyn, Amber, Robert James and JaydeAnn. He leaves behind sisters-in-law, Edith (Mel) Burwell, Ezellah Williams, Beverly Huckaby, Marsha Huckaby, and Sue Goodson and brothers-in-law, Ernest (Judith) Huckaby and Elbert (Elouise) Huckaby. He leaves fond memories with his dear friend, Jimmy Hill, and a host of many loving nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents; brother, Robert Goodson; brothers-in-law, Eugene Huckaby, Edward Huckaby, and Elmer Huckaby; and sister-in-law Elnora Gardin.
A celebration of his life will take place Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Immanuel Missionary Baptist Church, 1324 Chapel St, New Haven, CT 06511. Friends may call Wednesday at the church from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Interment will be Thursday, August 29, 2024 at 12:00 Noon at CT State Veterans Cemetery, Middletown. Services by Howard K. Hill Funeral Services, 1287 Chapel St., New Haven, CT 06511. To leave a message of comfort for the Goodson family, please visit, www.hkhfuneralservices.com