John W. Goodson began practicing law in 1951 and was known as a ``gentle giant'' in the courtroom because of his imposing height, booming voice and tender heart. Throughout his distinguished career as a lawyer and Circuit Judge, John Goodson was a mentor and a friend to many. Some of those he mentored moved on to become international lawyers, elected prosecutors, Circuit Judges, Arkansas Supreme Court Judges and a federal Judge.

   Judge Goodson served as the presiding Circuit Judge in courts in Miller, Lafayette, Hempstead and Nevada counties in Southwest Arkansas.

   Judge Goodson was a World War II Air Force Veteran, a member of the Arkansas Masonic Lodge, and a board member and former Sunday school teacher at the First United Methodist Church in Texarkana, Arkansas.

   Nothing meant more in the life of John W. Goodson than the love he had for his family. This love was evident in all he did, from his active involvement in his church to his role as a community leader.

   My condolences go out to his wife, Doris; his daughters Jan Murphy and Mary Jane Briggs; his son John Goodson; and his three granddaughters, Jane Anne Murphy, Wesley Hana Goodson and Mary Claire Briggs. Judge Goodson will be sorely missed in Texarkana and throughout the state of Arkansas.