Obituary: James H. "Jim" Goodwin Jr.

James H. “Jim” Goodwin Jr. passed Sunday, Aug. 2, at the age of 73 in Winter Garden, Florida, due to COVID-19-related illness. 

Jim was born in Orlando, Florida, to father James H Goodwin Sr. and mother Helen Evans Goodwin.

Jim graduated from Colonial High School, attended the University of Florida until he was drafted and received his B.A. from Embry-Riddle University. Jim later received his master’s from Texas Christian University in Finance.  

Captain James Goodwin served in the Army, doing two tours as a helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War, where he received a Bronze Star, Purple Heart and other esteemed honors. Jim pursued many passions in his career from commercial airline pilot and financial advisor to real estate agent.

He was a member of Masonic Lodge, the First United Methodist Church and, in his youth, won awards as a Trap Shooter. He was a wood carver, avid collector, history buff, UF Gator fan, movie enthusiast and animal lover.  

Jim is predeceased by his parents, James Sr. and Helen Goodwin; and stepmother, Marilyn Goodwin.

He is survived by his wife, Betty Heidt Goodwin; son, Tyson Goodwin; daughter-in-law, Amanda Goodwin; granddaughters, Raegan and Madison; brothers, Doug Goodwin, Sam Goodwin; and sister, Susan Johnson.

A graveside service will take place at 11:30 am at the Winter Garden Cemetery on Wednesday, Aug. 12. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the following in Jim’s memory: k9sforwarriors.org/recurring-single-donations.