Randall Lee Gooden

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Randall (Randy) Lee "Buford" Gooden announce his passing on April 19, 2025 at the age of 68. Randy will be remembered for his fun-loving personality and his generous heart. He was affectionately known as Buford to many.

Randy leaves behind his children Tara (David), Brandon, Farrah (Ryan), and Quentin; grandchildren Corbin (Mikelle), Cora Jane, and Juliet; siblings Connie, Ricky (Sandy), Debbie (John), Rodney, and Lori (Vernon); several nieces and nephews; numerous other extended family members; and many, many friends.

Randy was preceded in death by his father, Delbert Gooden, mother, Joy Gooden, ex-wife Barbara Maddaleno; brother-in-law Jack Steen, and many other family members and friends.

Buford was born on September 11, 1956 in Centerville, Iowa, the son of Joy (Moore) Gooden and Delbert Gooden. He attended Moulton schools. He spent several years working for the railroad, was part of a traveling construction crew, and worked with his Dad on painting projects. In the 1970's, he followed his professional baseball dreams to California, where he earned a spot with the California Angels AAA ball club. He was united in marriage to Barbara Grundy in 1978, the love of his life, and remained close with her after they divorced.

Buford liked to fish, hunt, shoot pool, woodwork, and ride his four-wheeler. He always had a car or truck he was tinkering on. He was very much always on the go. Buford was usually the life of the party and had many, many friends that will remember his sparky personality, sense of humor, and kindness. He was rarely without a Pepsi and liked to watch wrestling and westerns, especially with his Dad. He primarily lived in southern IA for most of his life, including Moulton, Numa, and Centerville, and loved his country roads. He had dogs most of life, most recently Rowdy and Bear.

When his children were younger, he liked to take them camping at Rathbun Lake, especially Catfish Cove. He loved to hunt and fish with his son Brandon. Randy looked forward to his weekly visits with his sister Debbie, and liked to catch up and gossip with her over a cup of coffee. He loved watching unsolved mysteries with his granddaughter Cora.  He acted like a kid at Christmas. He loved spending time with his large circle of friends. He kept every card, trinket, or gift someone gave him and was very sentimental. He was generous, stubborn, wickedly funny, and loyal. He was a lot of things to a lot of people. He was my Dad. He's free as a bird now, and that bird you cannot change. Rest in peace and fly high, free bird.

Cremation has been accorded and a Celebration of Life service will be hosted by the family and held at a later date to be announced. Memorial donations may be made directly to the family.