Jack L. Goodman

Mr. Jack L. Goodman, 76, passed from his earthly home to his heavenly home on March 31, 2012 due to renal failure.

He was born in Bradenton, FL, December 31, 1935 and moved to the Polk county area in 1964 living in Lake Wales a couple of years, then Babson Park many years, and more recently Bartow, Fl.

Jack graduated from Manatee High School where he played football. Afterwards, Jack attended the University of Miami while in the military. He served as Crew Chief in the U.S. Air Force. He owned Jack’s Auto Service in Babson Park and later retired from International Paper Company as a Field Systems Engineer. He was a volunteer for the Babson Park Fire Department for many years. Jack earned his Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification while volunteering. He also rode auxiliary with the Polk County Sherriff Department and the Florida Highway Patrol for many years.

Jack was an avid sports fan. He coached Lake Wales Little League when his son was young. He transported the Lake Wales High School cheerleaders to many away football games and summer camps when his daughter was in school. Jack also enjoyed boating on Crooked Lake. He made wood crafts after retirement. He could fix almost anything and believed in doing his best. What he enjoyed most was being “Papa” to his grandson, David A. Twiddy, III. He took any opportunity he could to spend time with him.

Jack was a member of First Baptist Church of Bartow. He attended faithfully until he was no longer able. While in the military, he helped establish a Christian church in South Africa and loved talking about the deeper topics in scripture.

Jack was preceded in death by his son, Duane L. Goodman. He is survived by his wife, Shirley (Boykin) Goodman of Bartow, daughter, Kimberly Twiddy, son-in-law, David Twiddy, and grandson, David A. Twiddy, III all of Tampa.
Jack will be remembered for his devotion to family, service to the community, generosity, sense of humor, storytelling, and his faith in the Lord through his physical struggles. He leaves a legacy of love.

Visitation will be held Thurs. from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales. A grave side service will be held Friday at 10 a.m. at the Lake Wales Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in memory of Jack to Good Shepherd Hospice, Lavender Team at (863) 533-0203 or First Baptist Church Bartow (410 E. Church St., 33830).