James Richard Goodall

James Richard Goodall of Greenville, South Carolina, took the checkered flag peacefully at home, surrounded by his wife and daughters on Monday, June 2, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on February 22, 1943, in Huddersfield, England, Richard was the eldest son of the late Francis Adolph Goodall and Nellie Robinson Goodall. Richard graduated from Bristol University with a degree in Physics, and completed a Masters in Automotive Engineering at Cranfield University. His love of mechanics was formed in his childhood garage, where he built his first car with his father and brother. After marrying his love, Rosemary, in 1967, and driving her off in a mini cooper, the couple settled in Harrogate, England, where Richard worked for ICI Fibers. Having traveled in the US as a young man, and feeling drawn to the land of opportunity, Richard moved his family to Charlotte, NC in 1981, where he worked for Celanese until his retirement. A lifelong car enthusiast, Richard spent an exhilarating season next to the pit crew of an Indy car team, the result of his proposal for innovation in the workplace. After retirement, Richard and Rosemary moved to Greenville, SC, where he was a devoted grandfather to Holly and Emily. Outside of work, Richard was always eager to lend a helping hand. He was a faithful servant to Christ Lutheran Church in Charlotte, NC for 33 years. He was honored as a Guardian ad Litem of the Year. After moving to Greenville, Richard became an involved member at Travelers Rest UMC, where he served as usher, worship assistant, reader, and founded a men's group. He gave countless hours as a Lego coach with local schools. His love of paper model-making gifted many historical places with his intricate replicas. His delight for travel led him on frequent adventures with his wife and family. Richard is survived by the love of his life, Rosemary Goodall; brother, John Goodall (Ann); two daughters, Jennifer Goodall (Stu Thomas) and Susan Goodall White (David). He was the proud grandfather of Holly Margaret White and Emily Xian Jin White. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at Travelers Rest United Methodist Church in Greenville, SC. The family will receive friends in the fellowship hall after the service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial gifts be made to Travelers Rest UMC (19 S Main St, Travelers Rest, SC 29690) or VIA Health Partners (founded as Hospice of Laurens County, 1304 Springdale Dr, Clinton, SC 29325, viahp.org) or Christ Lutheran Church (4519 Providence Rd, Charlotte, NC 28226). Richard will be remembered for his dapper bowties, his love of motor sports, his counsel to “always draw a picture”, his pop-up greeting cards, and especially his generous love for family and friends.

James Richard Goodall

February 22, 1943 - June 2, 2025