David Richard Goodwin's Obituary
David Richard Goodwin, age 86, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved widower of Pamela Goodwin (née Bennett), who preceded him in death on December 16, 2022. David and Pam shared 40 wonderful years of marriage, and since her passing, David longed to be reunited with her. His family finds comfort in believing he is now where he always wished to be—with his beloved Pam.
Born on May 2, 1939, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, David was the son of the late Fred A. Goodwin and Phyllis C Goodwin (née Wass).
David proudly served his country in the United States Army and the United States Air Force, dedicating 20 years of honorable service, including a tour in Vietnam. Following his military retirement, David remained active and engaged in his community. One of his favorite endeavors was helping to run the kitchens at Marina Bay Resort in Fort Walton Beach, alongside his good friend Bob. It was there that David met the love of his life, Pamela, beginning a partnership that would define the happiest years of his life.
David later went on to work for Okaloosa County, where he did a bit of everything and was known as someone who could always be counted on to help wherever needed.
Those who knew David will remember him as a hardworking, dependable man with a generous heart. He would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need and never hesitated to lend a helping hand—even to people he had just met. David often worked long hours to support his family, quietly doing what needed to be done without complaint.
In his remaining years, David spent time enjoying the simple things that mattered most to him—going out to eat, saltwater fishing and being with family, especially trips to England, Germany, New Hampshire and his beloved state of Florida where he lived for many years. He never said no to going on a trip. He was especially thankful for the care and companionship of those around him and was fortunate to have many loving caregivers, including his sister Nancy, his niece Amanda, his daughter Angelina, his granddaughters Hannah and Destiny, and his many nieces and nephews.
David was known for his good sense of humor. He loved to tease—especially his sister—but always in good fun. He had a playful way of poking at people while maintaining a warm and loving presence. He was a good man who didn’t need recognition to do the right thing.
David is survived by his daughters: Tina Goodwin, Brenda Bain, Tina Kettle Smith, and Angelina Cole; his son, Stephen Kettle; his sisters, Nancy and Marcia; his brothers, Fred and David; and his cherished grandchildren: Ross, Hannah, Roxanne, Destiny, Alex, Sophie, Jack, Ashley, and Tori. He is also survived by numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, and great nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved dearly.
In addition to his beloved wife Pamela, David was preceded in death by his son, John Goodwin; his parents, Fred and Phyllis Goodwin; his brothers, Butch and Dick; and his sisters, Blanche and Phyllis.
David touched the lives of many people, some as caregivers and many as close friends. He was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
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