Ralph E. Goodson was born July 3, 1939, in Ellington, MO, the eldest son of Roy & Winifred (Beloate) Goodson.

After graduating from high school at the age of 15, he attended the University of Missouri, Columbia, studying civil engineering. Just prior to graduation, he decided to join the Navy to become a pilot.

In October 1981, Ralph finished his 21-year Naval career with his last assignment being the Commanding Officer, Navy/Marine Corps Reserve Center, Springfield.  He then worked for a local software company until full retirement. Hobbies included hunting, fishing, traveling, gardening, and Cardinals baseball.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Linda; two sons Greg (Teresa) and Steve; grandchildren Emerald (Austin) Baldwin, Forest, Hunter (Celine), Conor, Chloe, two great-grandsons Arthur and Winston Goodson, niece Angela Abbott, and many other cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Predeceased by his younger siblings, brother Owen and sister Alice Goodson.

Services will be officiated by brother-in-law the Reverend Jack Diehl at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 6, 2024, Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home, 1947 E. Seminole.  Ralph will be interred with military honors at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Springfield at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Navy and Marine Corps Relief Society, 875 N. Randolph St., Suite 225, Arlington VA 22203, or to Phoenix Hospice, 1839 E. Independence, Suite K, Springfield MO 65804.