Edward Joseph Goode, age 81, of Midlothian, Virginia, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Born on November 10, 1944, in Petersburg, Virginia, to the late Frank and Mary Whitaker Goode, Edward grew up attending Good Shepherd Baptist Church, then located on Virginia Avenue. After graduating from Peabody High School, he moved to Washington, DC, where he was employed by several nonprofit organizations until he was hired by the federal government.

He later became a member of Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, where he served faithfully as an usher. Edward spent the last 13 years of his professional career with the United States Department of the Navy in Arlington, Virginia, where he earned numerous promotions and the respect of colleagues for his work ethic and commitment to excellence. Within the Creative Services Division, he advanced his skills by attending the Kodak Institute in Rochester, New York, and received multiple honors, including the Silver Wreath Award, recognizing his outstanding contributions.

After retiring, Edward and his wife made their home in Midlothian, Virginia. Throughout his life, Edward exemplified dedication, integrity, and a heart for service. He joined Union Branch Baptist Church and took pride in serving as a member of the Usher Ministry.

Beyond his career, Edward was a devoted husband and father who cherished his family. Known for his kindness, wisdom, and steady presence, he had deep compassion for friends and those in need. He enjoyed jogging, lifting weights, coaching youth football, watching sports, and spending meaningful time with loved ones.

Edward is survived by his loving wife, Cornelia Owens Goode; his faithful sons, Edward Goode II (Deborah) and Eric Goode (Courtney); his beloved grandchildren, Donavan, Gabrielle, Tristan, and August; his brother-in-law, Joseph H. Owens, Jr. (Shirley); his sister-in-love, Mary Todd Goode; his god-daughters, Robyn Pope (Davon) and Anitra Bennett; his supportive niece and nephews, Katrina Thomas (Vincent), Kem Goode (Patricia), and Tommy Goode; his favorite cousin-sister, Frances Sloan; cousin, Edward Wyatt (Sonja); longtime friend Thomas Keiser and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Thomas Alphonson Goode and William Blakes.

Edward Joseph Goode will be remembered for his faithful service, deep compassion, devotion to family and friends, and the lasting legacy he leaves with all who knew and loved him.

Services will be held at 11:00 A.M., Friday, January 23, 2026, at Union Branch Baptist Church, 11519 River Road, Chesterfield, VA, the Rev. Dr. Gregory Howard, Pastor, eulogist.  The interment will be held 12:00 Noon, Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Dale Memorial Park.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page or click here to view: https://vimeo.com/event/5673268?fl=so&fe=fs