MSG EDWARD E GOODWAY JR, US ARMY Ret. – a 84- year-old native of Dothan, AL
and longtime resident of Panama City, Florida passed away
January 6, 2025. Mr. Goodway was born in New Jersey, September 1,
1940, where he lived until joining the Army at age 17.
Mr. Goodway, a 3x veteran of the Vietnam War, where he earned a Bronze Star and the
Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Medal w/ Palm 2 times, retired as a Master
Sergeant from the United States Army after 20 years of service. He visited many
countries and was stationed all over the United States before retiring at Ft. Rucker,
Alabama. After the Army, he taught ROTC and then joined the Daleville Police
Dept/Dept of Public Safety where he served as Major and Chief, before retiring after 20
years. He was also a long-standing member of the Scottish Rites Masonic Lodge for
over 50 years.
Mr. Goodway was a fun-loving adventurous man, as was evident in his life. He was a
regular on the American Bandstand in the 1950’s. He was an automobile/drag racing
enthusiast, he enjoyed racing in his younger days…winning many trophies. He also
loved to fly. He got his fixed wing license and enjoyed taking family sightseeing in
Alaska and Alabama. He was a loving man who enjoyed life and spending time with his
family and friends. He enjoyed reading, playing games with family, and joking around.
He also thoroughly enjoyed the water (boating, skiing) and has requested that his ashes
be scattered in the ocean.
He is preceded by his parents Edward E. Goodway Sr. and Frances (Statler) Goodway
of New Jersey and survived by his children, Cheryl Hower (Sam) of Cassopolis,
Michigan, Denise Reed (Keith) of Dothan, Alabama, Teraysa Forrester (Kenneth) of
Dothan, Alabama and Marlo Goodway of Daphne, Alabama. 6 Grandchildren; 12 great-
grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Disabled American Veterans
(D.A.V.) or any POW/MIA support organization. Condolences may be offered
at fowlerfamilyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Fowler Family Funeral Home.
