Joe L. Goodrum, age 90, of Nashville, Ark., died on Monday, Dec. 19, 2022, in Nashville, Ark.
He was born March 23, 1932, in Nashville, Ark., the son of the late Walter Goodrum and Thelma Clark.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Sherry Goodrum.
Joe graduated from Nashville High School in 1950. After he and Sherry married in 1958, they returned to Nashville to coach and teach. Coach Goodrum coached until losing his eyesight in 1969. His coaching career was highlighted by the 1967 football team being crowned State Champions and by serving as an assistant coach on the 1962 West All Star Staff. Joe was also the track coach, and the Joe Goodrum Outstanding Track Award is still given each year to the outstanding male trackster. He remained Athletic Director until his retirement in 1978.
Joe attended Henderson State Teachers College and played running back for the Reddies in 1952, 1953, and 1954. He graduated in 1955. Upon returning to Nashville,
Joe purchased a farm for raising cattle. In the early 1970s, he built five chicken houses and raised chickens and cattle for the next 35 years.
Joe was a member of the First United Methodist Church. He served on the administrative board and taught Sunday school. He was also a member of the Lions Club.
He is survived by one daughter, Gaye Graham and husband Doug of Nashville, Ark.; two grandchildren, Beth Yenser and husband Zach of Lexington, Ky.; D.J. Graham and wife Heidi of Magnolia, Ark.; five great-grandchildren, Graham Yenser, Max Yenser, Griffin Graham, Maddox Graham, and Nash Graham.
Visitation will be 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 21, at Latimer Funeral Home in Nashville.
