Marilyn S. Goodson

Marilyn S. Goodson, 89, died peacefully at her home in Chester, MD, surrounded by family on Sunday morning, January 22, 2023, following her courageous battle with cancer. Born July 22, 1933, in Montclair, NJ, she was the daughter of Capt. Lawrence (USN) and Edith Smith. Marilyn was predeceased by her husband of 46 years, Charles B. Goodson. She is survived by her three sons, Mark B. Goodson (Barbara) of Charlottesville, VA, Gary L. Goodson (Julia) of Morris Plains, NJ, and Stephen W. Goodson (Sandra) of Rockaway, NJ; her grandchildren, Melissa Haas (Rich), Gregory, Michele Foley (Nathan), Taylor, Megan, and Gary Jr.; and two great-grandchildren, Collin and Lillian Haas. She is also survived by her brother, Dr. Lawrence Smith (Lizzette) of Columbia, MD, and her steadfast companion, Capt. Walter “Spud” Flowers (USN Retired) of Annapolis, MD. Marilyn was a devoted mother actively raising her three boys in Richmond, VA, and Montville, NJ - staying very involved in their school, Little League, scouting, and numerous other activities. As her boys grew up, she later returned to college to complete her BA degree in Music at Caldwell University and her MA degree in Adult Education. She taught piano to countless students while pursuing her studies. Professionally, Marilyn served as Director of the External Degree Program for Caldwell University and was instrumental in pioneering the University’s Adult Education curriculum. She later consulted with many other universities to establish similar distance-learning programs, the precursors of today’s technology-driven online education. After her husband’s death, Marilyn retired to Kent Island and became very active in the sailing community where she met her companion, Spud Flowers, and enjoyed years of sailing adventures and international travel. She was a longtime volunteer at the AAMC and generously gave her time to the local hospice organizations and other environmental causes. She also enjoyed her many friends as an active Kent Island Yacht Club member. A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Christopher's Catholic Church in Chester, MD, on Friday, February 17, at 10:30 a.m. This will be followed by a Celebration of Life luncheon for family and friends at the Kent Island Yacht Club. Our family wishes to lovingly thank Dr. Adam Goldrich and nurse Judi Newcombe of Maryland Oncology Hematology (MOH) of Annapolis, MD, for their dedicated care and compassion for our Mom over the past year. We also wish to thank our caring angel, Ms. Etta Walker, who touched all our lives in Mom’s final days. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Marilyn’s name to the American Cancer Society or the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Marilyn S. Goodson

July 22, 1933 - January 22, 2023