Michael Wayne Goodgion, 71, of Brownwood, Texas, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026, surrounded by the love of family who will forever cherish his memory. Born on December 28, 1954, in Brady, Texas, Mike lived a life rooted in faith, family, laughter, and service to others.
Mike was the eldest son of Billy Wayne Goodgion and Audrey Lavonne Peterson Goodgion, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his stepmother, Mary Goodgion, and his sister, Peggy Wright.
He is survived by his loving wife, Diane Ply Goodgion, whom he married on December 7, 2012, in Brownwood, Texas. Together they shared a life filled with love, faith, and devotion.
Mike was a proud graduate of Brownwood High School, Class of 1973. He attended Angelo State University and Howard Payne University, where he continued pursuing his passion for education and athletics.
Throughout his life, Mike touched countless lives through both his work and his heart for people. He worked for Safeway Grocery in Brownwood and San Angelo before dedicating 30 plus years to education. Mike taught math and coached at Comanche ISD, Brownwood ISD, Early ISD, and Socorro ISD. Coaching was more than a profession to him-it was a calling. He mentored young athletes in baseball, football, basketball, track, and golf, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students who admired his encouragement, humor, and steady guidance. Mike believed his purpose in teaching was to make a difference in the life of one student. He often said he never knew which student God had called him to reach, so he continued pouring his heart into helping the next one who came along.
Mike’s faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life and carried him through every season. He was a member of the Baptist church and faithfully attended Dallas Houston’s Monday night Bible study for as long as he was able. His relationship with Christ shaped the way he loved others-with kindness, compassion, and a servant’s heart.
He found joy in fishing, sports, spending time with family and friends, and making people laugh. Mike never met a stranger, and his warm personality and quick wit could brighten any room. More than anything, he had a genuine heart for helping others and made everyone feel valued and loved.
Mike leaves behind a loving family who will deeply miss him: his children, Curtis Goodgion and Heather of Longview, Texas; Tyler Goodgion of Norfolk, Virginia; Christy Ellis and John of Brownwood, Texas; Jeffrey Smith and Tiffany of Nashville, Tennessee; and Heather Smith of San Angelo, Texas.
He is also survived by his brother, Gary Goodgion and Sharla of Brownwood, Texas; his brother-in-law, Robert Wright of May, Texas; his sister, Keri Goodgion of Bangs, Texas; his stepbrother Damon Williams and Melonie of Stephenville, Texas; and his stepsister Shelly Williams of Atlanta, Georgia.
Mike was a proud grandfather to Nathan and Noah Goodgion; Braden and Jackson Smith; Garrett and Zachary Ellis; Jasmine Smith; and Angel Knight. His grandchildren brought him immense pride and joy.
He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and the special caregivers from Pecan Bayou Nursing and Rehab who cared for him with kindness and compassion.
In honoring Mike’s wishes, there will be no formal service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the ALS Association or a charity of your choice in his memory.
Though his earthly journey has ended, Mike’s legacy of faith, laughter, mentorship, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Online condolences, memories, and tributes can be made to the family at www.heartlandfuneralhome.net.
