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Mr. Tommy King Goff Obituary
Mr. Tommy King Goff, a longtime resident of Auburn, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2008 at East Alabama Medical Center. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, October 1st, at 3:30 PM in the Auburn United Methodist Church Sanctuary with Dr. George Mathison officiating. The family will be available for visitation in the Epworth Fellowship Hall immediately following the service.
Mr. Goff was born June 13, 1933 in Mobile, Alabama. A self-described "C/D student" until he discovered the trumpet and the band, Mr. Goff found that his new passion fueled a pursuit of excellence in other areas of his life as well. During high school, Tommy also made extra money playing dance jobs around Mobile and New Orleans, developing a love of jazz. After graduating from Murphy High School in 1951, Goff decided to come to Auburn University with a friend to major in Aeronautical Engineering. After only two weeks, Tommy realized he should change his major to Music Education.
During his college years, Tommy was active in a number of music-related organizations, including the Auburn Knights Association, a jazz band comprised mainly of AU students, earning desperately-needed side money. Upon graduation, Mr. Goff accepted the position of Band Director for Lee County High School (now known as Auburn Junior High School), which housed students in grades 6 through 12. In later years, Auburn High School was built, and Mr. Goff became the Director of AHS Bands. During Mr. Goff's 32 years in the Auburn City School System, the AHS bands - concert, marching, and jazz (lab) - all became notable for their excellence, innovation, and mature playing style. Mr. Goff and the bands he directed won many awards, gave a number of invited performances, and in 1987, were notified they had received the Sudler Flag of Honor, the highest honor that can be bestowed on a high school band program. A number of his former students went on to become professional musicians and band directors, which pleased him immensely. Following his retirement in 1988, Mr. Goff continued to stay active in the music field by adjudicating competitions, teaching private lessons, and writing and arranging music for small ensembles. Throughout his life, Mr. Goff was a devoted Auburn University football fan, as well as an active participant in the annual Auburn Knights Reunion held each summer.
Mr. Goff is survived by his brother, Kenneth "Punchy" Goff (Betty), of Mobile, Alabama; three children, Kelley (Jim) Taylor of Auburn; Rick Goff of Birmingham, AL, and Dan Goff (Stewart Daniels) of Melbourne, Australia; four grandchildren, Seth and Ben Taylor (Auburn) and Henry and Alice Goff (Birmingham); a host of adoring nieces, nephews, and cousins; and many, many friends and former students. He was preceded in death by his parents, Webster and Mary Goff, and his wife, Jane A. Goff.
Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home is directing. Flowers will be accepted, or memorial donations may be directed to the Auburn Band Parents Association, P.O. Box 1965, Auburn, AL 36831-1965; the Auburn Knights Alumni Association Memorial Scholarship, in memory of Tommy Goff, c/o Fritz Siler, 3110 Deer Chase Ct, Snellville, GA 30039; or Auburn United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 3135, Auburn, AL 36831-3135.
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Memories and Condolences
for Mr. Tommy King Goff
Alicia (nee Dill) Ibarreta
October 17, 2008
Thanks to Mr. Goff's family for sharing him with so many students. He was such a wonderful example & inspiration. I do not "work" in the field of music, but the lessons he taught were relevant in every aspect of my life. He taught a very serious young girl that joy is worth the effort. That has influenced and blessed my life for 25+ years. Maybe if I live right, I will be able to sing by Mr. Goff's side again someday. God Bless your family!
Keith Hardwick
October 6, 2008
The Goff Family,
I am completely saddened to learn of Mr. Goff's passing. In so many ways, the man i became and my passion for music, comes from Tommy's zeal for music. So many times, during college where i studied Music and Composition, I found myself asking "How would Tommy Goff do it?" Through graduate school and beyond, I still ask "How would Tommy Goff do it?" He set a standard of excellence that is unmatched even today.
I know how hard it is to lose a parent, and teacher. I grew up being Mrs. Hardwick's son to a generation of kids at AHS. Mr. Goff made it possible, without ever telling a soul, for me to take part in band activities while my mother was sick.
If the true test of a man is the legacy he leaves behind, then Tommy Goff was indeed a giant among men. For the thousands of Kids he gave the gift of music too, and the thousands of others who learned "the way Tommy Goff did it"
Thank you!
I will never forget riding my bike around the corner to the house on Flower Circle and bandcamp and band supper tickets and black wool uniforms in August ... and Shostakovich and Stevie Wonder, and "sight reading" and moravian chorals....
Dr. Michael Gill
October 6, 2008
To the Goff family,
I was truly saddened at hearing your father had died. My father died very recently and next to him, Mr. Goff was the greatest influence in my life. The sole reason I became a band director was because of him and I think of him every time I'm in front of my band. His humor, dedication and passion for his students is why I'm still teaching today. I graduated from AHS 35 years ago but his influence is still being felt. He will be missed by all.
Karen White Garcia-Class of 1976
October 3, 2008
Dear Goff Family(Kelly, Dan and Rick),
My best memories of high school are with the band and your dad. He was the best! He made us all laugh with his funny faces and crazy dance moves. Thinking of him always brings a smile to my face.
I am sorry for your loss but please know he will always live in the memories of those who knew him!
With Sympathy,
Joye Jones
October 3, 2008
I was in the 6th grade at Dean Road Elementary School the day that a red-headed man walked in to recruit kids for the beginners band. I was so excited. My parents bought me a cheap cornet and my musical education began in earnest. It was the beginning of a 6-year band relationship with Tommy Goff. When I look back on my high school years, the first thing I always think about is the Band. We were an excellent band because Tommy Goff would settle for no less. When I was in school (class of 65) being in the band was really cool!
Although I did not go on to become a professional musician, I have developed a great love for great music that began with Mr Goff. I have always been grateful to him for that.
I knew Jane Goff back when she was Jane Adams, and had the pleasure of going to the Goff wedding. I remember when Kelly was born and then when the twins came along -- the Goffs lived near us at the time.
To all the Goff family, I am terribly saddened by your loss. And I am very very glad that I had Tommy Goff for a teacher and Jane Goff for a friend. The world is better because they were a part of it.
Joye Jones
Jimmy Franklin
October 3, 2008
I am very sad that Mr. Goff has passed away. I learned from him that you can achieve amazing things when you really dedicate yourself. I learned life lessons that help me as a teacher and a parent. I will always remember with a smile how funny and happy he was during Lab Band practice and drum sectionals.
Terry Peacock
October 2, 2008
To the Goff Family,
Other than my parents, your dad had the biggest influence on my life. His motto of do the very best you can do or don't do it is mostly responsible for any of my later success. The world is truly a little darker with his passing. Thank you for sharing him and your mother with all of us.
God bless you,
Terry (Dowdell) Peacock
Michael Miakinkoff
October 1, 2008
There it is. once in a lifetime. and we were able to enjoy it. thanks Goff kids for sharing your mom & dad with all of us.
later,
sea ya'll on the beach.
Laura McDonald Beene
October 1, 2008
I am really, really sad today. I just cannot believe that he is gone.
I am so thankful that I took the opportunity to carry my hymnal to sing by his side when I found him sitting alone in church this summer. What a gigantic influence he had on my life. I'm glad that he is back by Jane's side. I know he is much happier now.
I really miss him. Love to the family.
Laura, Class of '86.
Princie Scott
October 1, 2008
To the Goff family:
I was saddened to learn of Mr. Goff's death. I had the wonderful opportunity of being a member of the Auburn High School Band and learned so much about life, music, integrity, discipline, and compassion from Mr. Goff. I want to share just one of the memories that I will always carry in my heart. I was the Uniform Chairperson my senior year in high school, and I was so excited to be a band officer. On our first away game of the season, there was much to do in getting everyone properly outfitted and on the bus. About half way to our destination, I realized I had not put the suitcases of plumes on the bus. I was horrified at having to tell Mr. Goff what I had done. I got up my courage and walked to where he was seated in the front of the bus. With tears in my eyes, I told him I had forgotten the plumes. He looked me in the eyes and told me not to worry; we would play and march every bit as good without them. He reassured me it was OK and not to fret. His understanding and compassion have never been forgotten. I had the privilege of seeing and talking to him at the July 2008 reunion for the '67 and '68 classes. I am so glad that he was a part of that special evening. I will miss him; he is truly a hero to all of us who had the great fortune to be taught by him and to count him as a friend.
David Gross
October 1, 2008
Mr. Goff was an inspiration in my life and for so many others. His passion for his craft, his willingness to help much less capable players (like me :-), and his dealing with the pressures that come from placing it all on the line to be the best, have molded and shaped me. I pray that he has gone a great reward, with his wonderful wife, and in a great band. (AHS Class of '79, with 4 great years in band).
Liz Dodds
October 1, 2008
I'm am so sorry for this great loss. My prayers are with Tommy and his family and friends!!!
Liz Duncan (Dodds)
Ann McAdams
September 30, 2008
To the Goff family:
My condolencs go out to your family. As a representative of Four Seasons Cleaners, I considered Mr. Goff not only as a customer but as a member of our family.
Kori Ledbetter
September 30, 2008
It is an honor to have known Mr. Tommy Goff. My fondest memory of him was he always sang a song called "Hang on Sloopy"during our jazz band practice. We always loved to hear him sing it. Finally he gave us the opportunity to play it. We had so much fun playing that song! He was great, he had more love for music in his little finger than I could ever find in a lifetime. He was an inspiration, he motivated everyone he came in contact with. After I graduated from Lee- Scott I was able to attend college on a jazz band scholarship. Mr. Goff helped me find my love for jazz, he gave each of us in that class a love for jazz and the inspiration to try new music. He was a motivator to say the least. I had the hardest time with solo improvisations, I just couldn't "Play what I felt". Mr. Goff always had time to stop and help me when I had this music block. He would write my solos out on paper for me. He never once told me I couldn't have a solo. After I graduated I saw him from time to time. He never forgot who I was, he would always ask me if "I was married yet and did I have any children?" Finally after a couple of years I saw him again and I could answer yes to both of his questions he always asked me. I showed him a picture of my daughter and we sat and talked a while. He left an outstanding impression on my heart, and I just wanted to thank him one last time. Again it was a great honor to have known him. My prayers are with his family.
Kori Weldon Ledbetter
Lee-Scott class of 1996
Karen L Williams
September 30, 2008
Kelley and Family,
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived. Take comfort in knowing that now you have another special guardian angel to watch over you all. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Lynn (Williams) Richey
September 30, 2008
Kelly,
I am sorry to hear about your father's passing. My prayers are with you and your family.
Arthur Anthony
September 30, 2008
To the Goff Family,
I was not a band member when I attended AHS. I do remember the passion Mr. Goff had for music and the type of students he molded. God bless you during this hard time.
Brandon Cole
September 30, 2008
Hey I Just wanted to leave a comment saying I
loved Mr. Goff.
Melanie White
September 30, 2008
My deepest prayers will be with your family during this time of sadness. Mr.Goff will truly be missed as a father, husband, friend, and band director. He always gave everything he had to the AHS band and to Auburn. He will be missed. (Class of 1997)
Cathy Campbell Jordan
September 30, 2008
Kelley, Rick and Dan, and families,
I was so sad to hear about your father's death. He was my absolute favorite teacher in high school, and one I still think about today. In fact, I sometimes find myself saying, "We can only go as fast as the one in front..."
Some of my best high school memories are from band - the trips, the football games, the concerts, the friends I made, and always Mr. Goff at the front. I learned so much from him about music and life.
Another memory that stands out is one Friday before an AHS football game. As we warmed up before going into the stadium, we were facing the west, so the sunset was over Mr. Goff's shoulder. It was a beautiful sunset, and he turned around to look at it, then said, "See how the sky is orange and blue? That means Auburn is going to win tomorrow." I have remembered that statement so many times, especially since I now live in Georgia Bulldog country!
Mr. Goff had a gift for bringing out the very best in us, and was talented in many ways. On top of it all, he was kind and, I believe, truly cared about all of us.
I know you will miss your father. You will all be in my prayers.
Cydney Padgett
September 30, 2008
Kelly, Rick, Dan and Families,
I will miss your dad very much. He was such a special man. Wow-what fun we had our years in AHS bands! I learned so much about life from your mom and dad-they were unique together.
Many thoughts and fond memories to all of you. Love,
Cydney Thornton Padgett '82
Jim Packard
September 30, 2008
It was with great sadness that I learned of Mr. Goff's death. Some of my fondest high school memories are the years I played in the AHS bands, due in great part to Mr. Goff's leadership and compassion for the students. Although I have not seen Mr. Goff in some time, he has been in my thoughts and prayers, particularly since Mrs. Goff's death last year. He will be truly missed.
Malcolm Jackson
September 30, 2008
Mr. Goff, you will be deeply missed but your "Legend" will live on forever as one of AHS most loved band director and friend. I will always remember you as a kind, stricted but "Cool" band director. To the family my prayers are with you. God Bless. Malcolm Jackson "Class of 83"
Robbie Rollins
September 30, 2008
Dear Goff family and friends,
I was very saddened to hear this news and I feel an emptiness that is surprisingly difficult to describe. Mr. Goff, as far as I am concerned, was the backbone and soul of the AHS band program. Period. But he was also so much more. A mentor. A counselor. A friend. An angel. He has touched countless lives in so many ways on and off the stage and I consider myself one of the luckiest people on the planet to have known him. So long, Mr. Goff. I know your harp strings are in tune!
With deepest sympathy,
Robbie Rollins - Class of 75
Vivian Penry
September 30, 2008
Mr. Goff was truly a great band director. Most of my high school memories are of band and Mr. Goff. I can never hear "Birdland" on the radio without thinking of him and how many great halftime shows he created.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of his family and many, many friends.
September 30, 2008
Mr. Goff, you will certainly be missed....My condolences to your family..Rhonda Wright(former Auburn High Student)
Julie smith
September 30, 2008
Mr. Goff was my band teacher when I was in junior high. I wanted to let you know that you are in my thoughts and my prayers.
Julie Best
September 30, 2008
Kelly - Your Mother and Dad were such wonderful people. How blessed we were that our paths crossed theirs. We cherish the memories of our times with them.
Sincerely,
Julie and Roger Best
Tellico Village, TN
Michael Miakinkoff
September 30, 2008
There will never ever never be enough words to describe what Mr Goff meant to so many of us. Goff kids, i apologize for not making it to Auburn for your father's service. be assured that at 3:30 tomorrow i will be crying again. not because he is no longer with us, but because of all my memories of him.
Audrey Hollis
September 30, 2008
Kelly,
My thoughts and prayers are with you!!!
jennifer davis juhlin
September 30, 2008
I am so so sad. I was in the band and graduated in 1989. I went on to become a music ed. major, which he tried so hard to get me not to do..."it's too hard on your family, Jennifer. don't you want to be married? Have children? Be with your family? This is not for you. It is way harder than you think. You have choices, do something easier." But I didn't listen and went on anyways, I wanted what he had and I wanted to give what he did. He was right of course, being a GOOD band director was WAY harder than I could ever have imagined, long, awkward hours, but I also experienced what he did...a true love for teaching, for making a HUGE difference in the lives of others, especially those who may not have anyone to really make that difference, and the goosebumps that parents and students felt during a performance that took months to prepare for. To HEAR something that made you FEEL the music, that is powerful. It was all worth it.
Mr. Goff was one of the most influential, special, life changing people in my life. He had so much confidence in me and my ability to do anything I wanted, and besides my boyfriend, he was the reason I enjoyed getting up every morning and going to school.
He made us laugh all the time, he would stand up high on the little deck in the band room parking lot while we would practice for marching band. He would yell out questions to us and never be able to hear our answers..."Jimmy Franklin, where is Kevin Barnes?" "He is at a doctor's appointment!" yells Jimmy. "What?" says Mr. Goff..."He's playing chess with a token?" Mr. Goff would hesitate for a moment and really try and figure out why Kevin would not be at school and instead, be playing chess with a token. He would finally give up...absolutely hilarious. He would always think we were saying something that was absolutely rediculous. But we didn't dare move...we just stood there very still, laughing about it later.
And he made us cry. Still to this day, I can not listen to Scheherazade or Romancing the Stone without crying, it was an insane task to take on, but boy did we play the heck out of that piece...and everyone in that band was moved and touched by our success, and we knew that if we could play that, there wasn't anything Mr. Goff could put on our stands that we couldn't play, and play well and beautifully. And he knew that beforehand.
And there was band camp, which now, as a middle aged person, I realize that band camp was a truly magical teen age experience. Like most of his students, I was scared of disappointing Mr. Goff, so I always followed the rules at band camp. I took them way too seriously I do believe. But I enjoyed hearing of the stories of what the fun, brave people did when they snuck out of their cabins at night, going skinny dipping in the lake, raiding the kitchen, sleeping in each others cabins, among many other things...oh my gosh all kinds of stories that I hope he got to hear after he retired.
For me personally, Mr. Goff was my hero. He is someone that changed my life in a major way, I am a different and better person because of him. He gave of himself in a huge way, and for that, he really has made a big difference in the lives of hundreds of people.
I love you, Mr. Goff. I will miss you. You were an amazing, loving, giving, special, funny person and the world definitely was a better place with you in it.
Jennifer Davis Juhlin
Durham, North Carolina
Bernie Feltman
September 30, 2008
Tommy and Jane Goff were two of the finest people I have ever known. It was impossible not to feel better about yourself or life when you were around them. I was not a band student at Auburn High School,
but I might as well have been for the way Mr. Goff treated me. My spare time has been devoted to working with teenagers for years and I would like to think Tommy and Jane have something to do with this. Kelly and other family members, your parents and loved ones didn't just have a life on this earth. They made a difference in the lives of people, everyday, all day!
Dr. Claude W. Gossett Jr
September 30, 2008
Kelly, Dan, Rick, and other family members; Know your grief is deep but also know that there are others out here who loved and respected your Dad as well. Especially those individuals who had the privilege to be in the AHS Band. Our own two loved and still do love Tommy, totally. I do not think there was another teacher thru the years who had as much influence on them as Tommie. Jane just might have been one though and what a light she was for the students bless her for her love for your Dad, each of you, and all the students. Grieve but with joy that your Dad was/is loved by such a host of students. God bless each of you and may our Lord give you grace, mercy, and love in these days.
Claude and Sylvia Gossett
Sydney Cook
September 30, 2008
To members of the Goff Family:
I first met Tommy Goff in the late 1950s or early 1960s when we would play touch football and basketball in the backyard of the Poucher's residence on North College where Tommy and Jane lived in a small guest house. Until I graduated from Auburn High School, Tommy was always involved with the AHS band and being a great friend to band members and other students.
This summer he came to the Friday night function for the joint reunion of the AHS Classes of 1967 and 1968. I don't think that I had seen him in forty years; however, it was just like I had seen him the day before. He was interested in where everyone was and what they were doing.
Tommy was a truly great person who will be missed greatly by all who knew him.
Phillip Ramsey
September 30, 2008
What wonderful memories of Mr. Golf at AHS. He was always smiling and willing to listen to any and all of the students. I am sure Mr. Golf and Jane are with a bigger band in heaven.
Robert French
September 30, 2008
Mr. Goff influenced so many people, changed so many lives and always in a positive way. All of us fortunate enough to have been a student of his at Auburn High School have been forever changed for the better. He pushed us and he pulled us ... always toward a positive goal. The music, the friendships, the memories and so much more were all made possible by his leadership. For me, being in Tommy Goff's band was a life changing experience for which I will always be grateful. I've thought of him often since high school, and I'll never forget him. This is a man who, like Jane, will live on in many people and their children ... their children's children, and on. They both had that much positive impact on people's lives. Tommy Goff was, is and always will be a true giant.
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