I get the NY local newspaper on line for a few dollars a month I read the obit and see people that I know that passed away Just a few minutes ago I saw Matt Goodwin , He was a barber and did security at my school He also cut many of my players hair who were black for nothing, He would come down to the gym and use a closet to cut hair. One of the most respected black man I ever knew My players worshipped him Kind and gentle but lifted weights and built like a tank. He never came to our basketball games but one night he was on security and I was losing at halftime. Matt came into my lockeroom and looked at each player and said nothing . Just stared at them in disappointment, shrugged his shoulders and walked out. I said something that even Mr Goodwin can't believe how you are playing. We went out and blew the team out of the gym in the 2nd half. The next day the newspaper article had the story about the game. I said " we had a visitor at halftime come into our lockeroom and that he pumped up the kids".. Matt the next day saw me in the hallway and asked " anytime you need me to come into your lockeroom at halftime and stare your kids down I want a fee " He was only kidding but his presence and respect the players had for him really made a difference. He was so proud of that night that he a barber and security person was so respected by my players that he made a difference in their lives,, RIP Matt Wish I could be there at your funeral but your brother is going to tell my story of you at the funeral ..
Matthew Gooden, Jr., aka Matt from "Matt's Barber Shop" passed away peacefully on November 17, 2023, in Rockland County, New York. He was the second of four children born to the late Deacon Matthew and Lillian Buncum Gooden of Awendaw, South Carolina.
First viewing will be at the Second Baptist Church 125 North St Middletown NY on Wednesday 11/29/23 from 4:00-6:00pm. Second viewing will be on Thursday 11/30/23 10:00-12:00pm with services beginning at 12:00 pm
Posted online on November 28, 2023
