John Oliver Gooding

John Oliver Gooding, 74, of Massillon, passed away on January 19, 2023 at Altercare of Navarre. He was born on March 25, 1948 to the late Franklin and Norma (DelGratta) Gooding in Canton, OH. He was a 1967 graduate of Sandy Valley High School. John was a gifted athlete receiving the 1967 Vince Costello Award for most valuable football player. He married Diane Damon on February 19, 1971 and they shared almost 52 years together.

John served his country honorably in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He worked as a Telephone Repairman for Ohio Bell/Ameritech for 35 years. He enjoyed golf, fishing, cooking, eating and talking with others. John never met a stranger, everybody who knew him, loved him. He loved people and loved life. John was a devoted and loving husband, father, Nonno and friend.

John is survived by his loving Wife, Diane; his children Chad (Jennifer) Gooding and Lindsay (Shawn) Billker; his grandchildren Noah, Rowan, Isabella and Cael; brother Steven Gooding and a host of family and friends. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his brother Randy Gooding.

In accordance with John's wishes, cremation has taken place and services were private. Donations in John's memory can be made to the Humane Society of Stark County - 5100 Peach Street NE, Louisville, OH 44641