Robert F. Gooch

Robert Franklin Gooch, known to family and friends simply as "Gooch," passed away August 3, 2026. He was born on August 19, 1946, in Union, West Virginia, to the late Joe Rome Gooch and Blondzella Virginia (Pankey) Gooch.

Gooch was a proud 1964 graduate of Union High School in West Virginia. Following graduation, he answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Navy, where he served honorably from January 1965 to January 1969, achieving the rank of E-4.

After his military service, Gooch built a long and varied career. He worked as a waiter at the historic Greenbrier Hotel from 1969 to 1971, followed by a career in corrections at F.C.I. Alderson from 1976 to 1984. He went on to work various industrial jobs before joining Meijer, where he worked in the Meat Department from 2003 until his retirement in 2014.

An avid West Virginia Mountaineer fan through and through, Gooch also loved staying active, enjoying tennis, bowling, softball, and basketball throughout his life.

Gooch was previously married to Rachel Irene (Bennett) Gooch.

He is survived by his children, Angelina Gooch, LaToyia Gooch, and Shehan Gooch, from his marriage to Rachel Irene Bennett Gooch; Sonya P. Hall (mother, Velma J. Jackson); and Angela Stingle (mother, Joann Dolan).

He was preceded in death by his father, Joe Rome Gooch; his mother, Blondzella Virginia Gooch; and his sister, Bernice Stone.

Gooch will be remembered for his dedication to his country, his strong work ethic, and his love for sports and friendly competition. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.