Howard Wilson Gooden Sr.

He was born on Jan. 17, 1947, in Elkins, West Virginia, a son of the late Glenville Merl and Thelma Grace (Powley) Gooden.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by one son, Preston; two sisters, Mary Fitzwater and Candace King; one brother, Ricky Gooden; and his first wife and the mother of his children, Donna McCloud.

Howard proudly served his country in the United States Army for 10 years, having two tours in Vietnam. Howard retired from Davis & Elkins College Chief of Security and Anta Lab in Beckley, West Virginia; In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, riding Harleys, and most of all spending time with his family.

Howard is survived by his beloved wife, Susie Gooden at home; four sons, Don Gooden, Ron (Tracy) Gooden, Howard “Jake” (Jenna) Gooden Jr, all of Elkins, West Virginia, and Ricky (Elizabeth) Hollis of Marietta, Georgia; seven grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; one sister, Tammy Fenton of Montrose, West Virginia; his furry friend, Gabbi; along with several nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be no visitation.

All services and inurnment will be held privately.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mullenbach Funeral Home 669 Main St. Follansbee, WV 26037.