Ronald Lee Goodpaster

In Loving Memory of Ronald Lee Goodpaster November 23, 1955 – July 16, 2025 

Ronald Lee Goodpaster, 69, passed away peacefully at his home on the morning of July 16, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family. 

Born on November 23, 1955, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Ron was the son of Iris Marie Goodpaster and Paul W. Goodpaster Sr. He grew up in a lively home filled with laughter, mischief, and the strong bonds shared with his four siblings. 

After graduating from high school, Ron joined the U.S. Army, where he would go on to serve his country faithfully for 19 years. He retired with the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 2, having dedicated much of his military career to operating and servicing the Patriot Missile System. Following his retirement from active duty, Ron continued to support the mission he believed in deeply, spending another 31 years as a subject matter expert and field engineer for Raytheon. 

Ron’s life was transformed during his time in the military when he had a profound encounter with Jesus. From that moment on, his faith became the cornerstone of his life. He strived to embody the words of Joshua 24:15: “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Ron chose joy daily, led with compassion, and was known for always seeing the best in others. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Jinky Goodpaster, and their six children: Shauna Taylor, Chelsea Sears, Carl Alvarado, Chryselle Lombardi, Shaun Goodpaster, and Sharaine Morton. He also leaves behind four sons-in-law: Matt Taylor, Logan Sears, Bailey Lombardi, and JP Morton; as well as three cherished grandchildren: Hallie Duncan, Elliot Lombardi, and Royal Taylor. 

Ron is also survived by his dear sisters: Starla Maurice, Sue Green, and Cindy Fisk. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul W. Goodpaster Sr. and Iris Marie Goodpaster, and his brother, Paul Goodpaster Jr. 

A celebration of Ron’s life will be held on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at Legacy Chapel in Madison, Alabama. Public visitation will begin at 12:00 p.m., followed by the service at 1:30 p.m. He will be laid to rest at Huntsville Memory Gardens with full military honors. 

As Ron did each Friday evening over his family, we leave you with the Aaronic blessing he loved so deeply: 

The Lord bless you and keep you. 

The Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. 

The Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Ron’s memory to causes close to his heart: 

• The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation (https://www.cholangiocarcinoma.org/donate/)

• The Gideons International (https://www.gideons.org/donate?scd=d_2400_749_GEN_Y10130&utm_medium=digital&utm_c ampaign=fundraising+&utm_id=2400_Evergreen_Digital_GEN_Campaign_Google_Ad&gad_so urce=1&gad_campaignid=22594098910&gbraid=0AAAAACVFUB30wGULRlrpGrR56BbSRUXf C)

• Israel Missions (Rock Family Missions) (https://pushpay.com/g/rockfamilymissions) (Please specify “Israel Missions” in the dropdown menu) 

Ron’s legacy of service, faith, and love will continue to inspire all who knew him.