John Douglas Goodman Sr.

John Douglas Goodman, Sr., passed away on September 11, 2026. He was the son of the late John Joseph Goodman, Jr., and Edith Shumaker Goodman. For 30 plus years, Doug served with Dominion Energy System Operations, helping manage and protect the electrical grid that powers homes, businesses, hospitals, and communities throughout the region. His expertise, dedication, and calm leadership were invaluable in ensuring reliable service during both routine operations and times of crisis. Those who worked alongside him knew him as a trusted professional, respected leader, mentor, and friend. Doug also served as a civilian firefighter for the National Guard, answering the call with courage, compassion, and selflessness. Doug’s favorite place to be was on the water with a fishing rod in his hand—whether in the Bay and Rappahannock or in the blue waters of the Gulf of America. He took countless fishing trips, helping family, friends, and customers of his Divergent Fishing Charters experience the joy and beauty of the waters he loved so much and fought to protect. As Board Chair of the Chesapeake Bay Defenders Alliance, Doug was a tireless advocate for the Chesapeake Bay and the Rappahannock River. He was especially dedicated to protecting the Chesapeake Bay menhaden population, recognizing their critical role in maintaining a healthy and sustainable ecosystem for the Bay. He is survived by the love of his life, best friend and wife Kara Keffer Goodman; his sons Johnny and Nick; brother Chris; sister Carol Ann; stepchildren Benjamin, Hope, and Molly; grandchildren Anastasia, Nick Jr., Hunter, Aiden, Audrey, Jackson, Eli, Amelia, Caleb, McKenna, Bryan, Madyson, Thomas, Andrew, Colton, and Lorelai; and four bonus grandchildren. But Doug’s family included far more than those related by blood or marriage; he never met a stranger. Doug’s unfailing cheerfulness, generosity, selflessness, patience, passion, and kindness led to countless friends whose lives are forever touched by having known him. "A man's legacy is not measured by what he leaves behind for himself, but by what he leaves behind in the hearts of others. Doug Goodman leaves a legacy of service, integrity, leadership, and compassion that will endure for generations to come.” A celebration of life will be held on 27 September 2026 at 2 pm at the New Kent Christian Center (9660 Tunstall Road, New Kent, Virginia, 23124). The family welcomes memorial donations to Little Fish Big Deal (https://littlefishbigdeal.org) or the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (www.cbf.org) in Doug’s name.

John Douglas Goodman Sr.

June 28, 1961 - September 11, 2026