Gary Allen Goodwin, age 88, of Warrior, Alabama passed away on Sunday, September 29, 2024.

To his family, whom he loved with all his heart, Gary was affectionately referred to as Papa. Papa was a sweet and gentle giant who gave great big hugs, told the best stories, and was someone you could talk to about anything. He loved caring for his garden and cooking enough food to feed any and everyone! There is so much more to tell about this mighty pillar of our family than words could ever possibly tell, so for now we will settle for saying that Papa was truly one of a kind, and a rare treasure that will forever be in our hearts and on our minds, until we see him again. We love you so much, Papa.

Gary was preceded in death by his wife, Francis J. Goodwin; children, Gerri Isbell and Randy Thornton; father, James Goodwin; mother, Vellon Cannon; stepfather, H.R. Cannon; and siblings, Jimmy Goodwin and Marrell Blankinship. He is survived by his children, Jay and Stephanie Goodwin, Larry and Debra Crain, Donna Wade, Laurie Thornton, and Lisa and Terry Finley; 13 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; his brother, Bill Goodwin (Catherine); and his first wife, Betty Davis.

A visitation for Gary will be held at Messmer Goodwin Funeral Home on Tuesday, October 1, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with the funeral service beginning at 12:00 p.m. Bro. Arnold "Rooster" Kilgore will be officiating. Interment to follow at Stewart's Chapel Cemetery.