Jeffrey E. Goad
“You’ve reached Jeff’s cell, I’m busy. I can’t answer. It must be important. Leave a message.”
“Yes, Jeff, this is an important message. You are dearly loved and missed. Life will never be quite the same without you, but thank you for being a part of our lives, even though you had to leave us far too soon.”
On November 3, 2021, Jeffrey Edward Goad (or “Goady” for those close to him), 51, of Los Angeles, California, formerly of Lansing, Michigan, unexpectedly left this world. Jeff was a proud 1988 graduate of Waverly High School and a proud Wolverine, graduating in 1992 from the University of Michigan School of Engineering. He was always quick to state his Michigan roots and the love he had for his childhood and early adulthood in the Midwest.
Jeff lived his life to the fullest. A lover of people, storytelling and connecting, he made loyal and lifelong friends wherever he went. Jeff was the ultimate “organizer” and never turned down an opportunity for group games or themed events. The true definition of a giver, Jeff put his whole heart into his friendships, his career, his family, and the causes important to him to help his fellow man, without ever missing a beat. We can confidently substantiate that Jeff Goad was the inventor of dad jokes and would never cease to make you laugh; his comedic timing was truly unmatched. He was a creative and insightful person who delighted in bringing people together whether to solve problems at work or to form new friendship bonds. Jeff’s successful career gave him countless opportunities to lead with love, teach and nurture colleagues who inevitably became his family. Everyone who knew Jeff describes him as the kindest, most generous, funny, optimistic and supportive person they knew.
Jeff was a season ticket holder and avid fan of both the LA Lakers and the Los Angeles Rams. He loved tailgating with his neighbors, Todd and Amy, and the rest of his LA Rams RAMilia group. Jeff also loved his Michigan Wolverines. Jeff prided himself on a goal he set and continued to achieve to walk 5 miles a day. At last count, he posted that he had done this for 2020 consecutive days and was continuing his quest.
Jeff is survived by his mother, Doris Goad; brother Matthew Goad; nieces Hannah and Shelby Goad and their mother Sarah Goad; several aunts, uncles, and cousins; and his “California family,” Sandra and Jose Maciel and their children Aliyah and Nico (Jeff’s godson), all of whom Jeff dearly loved. He was preceded in death by his father Marvin Goad and his maternal and paternal grandparents.
As a lover of community, Jeff actively served for many years on the Board of Directors of LA’s BEST, a group that funds after school education, enrichment, and recreation programs for 25,000 children in the Los Angeles Unified School District who live in areas with the greatest needs and fewest resources. Jeff’s passion and connection to the human experience helped the underserved in countless ways, and we hope you will continue to honor his charity work.
For those wishing to contribute in Jeff’s memory, memorial contributions can be made to LA’s BEST, Afterschool Enrichment Program, Office of the Mayor, 200 N. Spring Street, Suite M-120, Los Angeles, CA 90012 or to your local Food Bank, or to any charity of your choice.
A Celebration of Jeff’s Life will be held on Friday, November 26, 2021, at the Hilton Garden Inn Lansing West, 633 N. Canal Rd., Lansing, MI 48917, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with a time to share memories at 1:00 p.m.
A celebration will be held in Los Angeles at a later date.
47 Messages to “Jeffrey E. Goad”
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Todd Fickies
November 4, 2021 at 5:57 pmCan’t believe you are gone. You will be missed. Prayers to your mother, Matt and the rest of the family
Raj Mitra
November 5, 2021 at 10:51 amI am still in shock.
Doris and Matt – call me for anything….I don’t know what to say and can’t imagine your grief.
Love ya brother…..see you at The Last Resort.
Raj
David Knott
November 5, 2021 at 12:08 pmAs many memories and laughs that we had together, it will never be enough. There was too much still to do with you, my friend. I will have to take solace in the fact that you created a wide-ranging, rich found-family. You generously gave so much of your time and love to friends, co-workers, and strangers alike. You touched so many lives in such profound and positive ways.
I will miss you terribly. Say hi to Eric for me.
Michelle Coolican-Rosser
November 5, 2021 at 5:06 pmI am still in shock and so heartbroken. We just chatted about doing that zoom. You were so generous with my move to Utah, you were always so kind and always put a smile on everyone’s face. You made the world a better place.
Prayers to your family…You will be missed my friend…
Letty R Fawcett
November 7, 2021 at 1:34 pmThe shock, anger, and grief have overwhelmed so many that you have left bereft. Your wit and good company will be missed more than you could have imagined. It is a poorer world without you.
pat and Dick Schaible
November 7, 2021 at 2:34 pmI am shocked and so so sorry. Doris, you and your family will be in my prayers. May our Lord give you strength, and comfort .
Love,
Pat and Dick Schaible
Marlene-Wayne Denison
November 7, 2021 at 5:09 pmDoris& Family still in shock JEFF u were One of a Kind always so thoughtful to all u Family& Friends such a caring and lovable person to be around always a smile on your face and oh so Caring.Take care of DAD (Marvin) in Heaven Love JEFF Always Forever Your Loving Aunt Marlene& Uncle Wayne Denison
George Moricz
November 7, 2021 at 6:03 pmGeorge Moricz Jeff you invited me to come to LA so many times that I finally realized you were serious but now it’s too late. You were the real deal and touched so many in a positive way.I will always be honored to have been called Uncle by you!
Antoinee Slater
November 8, 2021 at 7:34 amDear Jeff,
I am still in shock & disbelief that you left us so sudden, but the short amount of time we had together will live on for years & years! The Honeypot family will miss you and all the silly costumes, dad jokes, “Jeff sayings” & more. You were a big ball of love and joy and always pushed us to do our best. All of your coaching will pay off as we push forward to squash our goals and eat cake! You inspired me to lead with more grace, patience & live life like it’s my last <3 Thank you for all of the great talk Jeff, forever grateful.
Love Antoinee
Barbara Kennedy
November 8, 2021 at 9:40 amDear Doris and Matt ….Mary (Colgrove/Kozera) would write you if only she could having always felt close to you. Steve notified me of Jeff’s passing. I am so so sorry for you, family and friends as Jeff will be sorely missed. May sweet memories sustain you through this very difficult time.
Love,
Barbara Kennedy
Kathy Mace
November 8, 2021 at 9:47 amDoris and Family,
I’m so sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers to you all.
John Martorelli
November 8, 2021 at 1:27 pmJeff. I only met you perhaps a half a dozen times but knew you as a man of few words with a big heart! Always there to help. You will be missed by many.
Tom Pier
November 8, 2021 at 1:59 pmSuch a sad loss of a true Warrior. Our days at Waverly were made even more special with you in them you always had a smile on your face and could brighten up anyone’s day.
Rest In Peace Brother…
anita jennison
November 8, 2021 at 5:27 pmI’m heartbroken to hear the news. His jovial spirit will be missed. May your soul rest in peace and thank you for gracing my life and Sedona’s – you will not be forgotten, I’m so very lucky to have known you.
Jodi Dostal
November 8, 2021 at 11:28 pmJeff,
What I would give for one more hug, one more holiday and all your wisdom!!! You definitely left your mark on this world and I will forever miss you!! We had so many fun and memorable times that I will never forget. Thank you for breaking me from my shyness. You were like a big brother to me “Effy”…my heart is broken but you left an amazing mark on this world!!!!
Carrie A Fawcett
November 9, 2021 at 7:51 amI will never forget my trip to California after graduation. LA was the highlight, as you toured my friend and I all over the city from the Farmers Market to Hollywood Boulevard to the La Brea Tar Pits. The enthusiasm and energy you put into showing us the city you loved made it one of the most fun and memorable trips of my life. Always an entertainer and a generous host you loved making people laugh. Although you are gone far too soon, I am confidant that you created more joyful memories with those you loved than many people get a chance to in their lifetimes. I will miss you cousin.
Rob Whitaker
November 9, 2021 at 8:26 amThis is heartbreaking news. Based on all the responses here and on FB, people seem to have gravitated to you from our times in elementary school until now. You will be missed.
Love you man!
Anthony Ferguson
November 9, 2021 at 10:10 amWith Jeff nothing was impossible even if everyone else knew the outcome. The creativity and can do approach to life is what made him special. He is so special that anyone that has been around would not even believe he has left is because you can hear him say “come on let’s get a few engineers and we’ll get it done.!” He will be missed…
Magali Gutierrez
November 9, 2021 at 11:17 amDeepest condolences to Jeff mother and family.. RIP Jeff thank you for being part of my life in LAP you will be missed but never forgotten.
Brett Maynard
November 9, 2021 at 4:41 pmMy deepest sympathy to Doris, Matt, and all of Goady’s peeps. Jeff has been my best friend for 27 years and we’ve worked and lived in TN, DE, and CA. Jeff has a brilliant mind and energy in which he has dedicated his life helping others with his mentoring, thoughtfulness, leadership, and charity work. This was way too soon and still can’t believe it. We had so much still to do, see, and talk about. You will be forever missed , may you RIP my buddy.
Matt Bauer
November 9, 2021 at 5:15 pmTo Jeff’s family,
I was floored to learn of the passing of the “Goad-man”…
He was the hub of a vast network of friends and coworkers (past & present), he knew what everyone was doing and made it his mission to keep in touch or help someone network – he was Facebook before there ever was Facebook! A kind, fun loving and as generous of a person as there could be. I worked with him for many years at Neutrogena, there was never a project too big or complicated for the Goad, he would just assemble a team, a stack of sticky pads with a marker and have at it – his desire to succeed was infectious. We both loved college football and it came to a head in the 2012 Sugar Bowl when we watched together at his house when the officials ‘robbed’ the Hokies of their last second TD catch that would have upset his beloved Wolverines – OK Goad, I’ll let you have that one! While Jeff’s time among us was far too short, his persona and zeal for life far exceeds many of those who live life longer!
RIP my friend, we’ll miss you!!…
Bob Fawcett
November 9, 2021 at 5:38 pmOne of my holiday lights has been extinguished. Jeff was always a delight at our Thanksgiving gatherings. Full of funny stories and organizing fun games for the group. My condolences to Doris, Matt, Sara, Hannah and Shelby. I know Jeff was a bright light in all your lives.
Tomme S Felton
November 9, 2021 at 8:33 pmDoris, in the short time I have got to know you it has been an absolute pleasure. It just breaks my heart that I got to know Jeff even less. It took all of 5minutes to think “wow is this a nice guy or what”. It is definitely a tribute to you and Marv as he obviously was brought up with a lot of love and respect. I will cherish our night in Vegas together. Memories like that are one in a million. Please know my heart is with you and I love you very much.
Nydia Evangelista
November 9, 2021 at 11:50 pmMy deepest condolences to his dear mother and family. Jeff had a great heart and he was an amazing friend to everyone.
I will never forget his smile and kindness to others. He will be dearly missed.
Rest In Peace Dear friend. You and family are in my prayers.
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted” (Matthew 5:4)
Susan K Russell
November 10, 2021 at 10:11 amDoris,
There are no words so please just know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
With much love, Susie
Joe Basile
November 10, 2021 at 3:42 pmMrs. Goad,
Your son was a very, very good man. The love people have for him is a testament of that. There’s not much more I can say that hasn’t been said already.
He will always be in my heart. If friendship and support will live with me.
I am here in Los Angeles if you need anything.
Love and light,
JB
Connie and Chris Stahl (Neutrogena colleague)
November 10, 2021 at 5:55 pmDeepest condolence to Jeff’s mom and family.
Jeff was such a lively and respected figure at Neutrogena. The life in every corporate party we had.
May you rest in peace with our Lord Jesus Christ.
Joe Szymanski
November 10, 2021 at 6:31 pmSo sad.
I met Jeff @ GM Wilmington in the late 90’s. We quickly became friends. As said in the previous notes, he was such a people person! An optimist, fun, caring, ready to help, and curious. He also saw something further – his writing, his ambition, and how he could help influence change. While at GM, one of his nicknames was Yogi (to Brett’s Bam Bam). A lot of fond memories in that, now missing, facility and elsewhere. He helped me with a row boat in a pond and then we went to visit St. Andrew’s in Middletown where Dead Poets Society was filmed. When he found out I had not seen Star Wars he for the VHS tapes on my family. Punkin Chunkin was a blast, cold as hell, but a blast with Jeff. Oh, and I believe he bought the Mind-Erasers for MA & me @ the Starboard that left on the sidewalk bench ’til morning. Just a few ‘never forget’ Goad memories.
Our condolences to his Family.
Joe & Mary Ann Szymanski
Eric Gurna
November 11, 2021 at 8:58 pmThe contributions Jeff made to the children and families of LA’s BEST are immeasurable. His tremendous spirit, enthusiasm and humor were contagious. I saw him organize and motivate his peers to do even more “for the charity,” and I saw him interact with children with joy and an open heart. I’m grateful to have known him, and my heart goes out to all his family and loved ones.
Alli Webb
November 12, 2021 at 4:39 pmI was lucky enough to work along Jeff for many years and and am heartbroken over this untimely loss.
You were such a bright light and generous soul Jeff.. the world lost a wonderful man. You will be so very missed. My heart aches for your mama and family.
Alyson
November 12, 2021 at 7:28 pmDoris and family, we are so heartbroken at the unexpected passing of Jeff. He was such a bright light in the world and left all of us better for knowing him. His infectious grin and hearty laugh brightened every interaction he had. He loved people and people loved him. Just two weeks ago we had lunch where he spoke with such excitement about getting to spend the holidays watching his beloved Lakers and visiting with his Momma and nieces. Family was everything to him and he felt he had won the jackpot of life getting to be a Goad. Each of you won the jackpot getting to call him son, uncle, brother and brother in law. He loved you all so very much and you will all be in my thoughts and prayers in the coming weeks and months.
AYMAN AWWAD Elhabashy
November 13, 2021 at 2:16 amYou was so kind person like a big brother for me
I worked under your supervision in LA site for very short period but after returning home in Egypt when I remember my memories in USA the first person come to me is you
I will keep your iin my thoughts and prayer
Eric Rosenbaum
November 13, 2021 at 7:42 pmI met Jeff working at Neutrogena so many years ago and have many many great memories with him. I lived in his guest house for years and Jeff was always there for me through thick and thin. I’m so thankful that I was able to get two great hangs with him recently where he shined his bright light like he always did. I miss you so much, bud, and can’t wait to meet again.
Love Always,
Rosey
Veronica McKenzie
November 14, 2021 at 3:22 pmI’m so sad to hear about Jeff’s passing. We studied together at UCLA’s evening programme and he was so kind and supportive- showing me around LA and taking me to my first American soccer match. I last saw him in 2019 and did intend to catch up once Covid was over. I recall his laugh and quite frankly terrible jokes – we talked about writing a comedy. I could go on, just to say he went out of his way to be a friend to me and I really appreciated him and miss him. Rest in peace Jeff- a good one gone too soon x
Alicia Clark
November 14, 2021 at 5:08 pmI had the pleasure of meeting Jeff at a UCLA summer producing program back in 2008. He was always so positive, friendly and more than willing to bring our group together for a good time…both during and after the program. He personally connected me with other industry people to help me on my career path and it was truly appreciated. Such a kind, giving heart. I’ll miss his smile and laughter tremendously. May he rest in peace.
Sending love and blessings to his family, friends and colleagues that he left behind.
-Alicia
Sarah Hutnick
November 15, 2021 at 12:57 pmTo Jeff’s tribe of family and friends,
I’m sending love and prayers for your healing and peace. Jeff was an extremely special human and I’m still heartbroken over our sudden loss. While we got to know each other during his tenure with Drybar, he was a soul person who I felt close to even when our daily lives drifted. He showed up 110% for his teams and every event ANYONE planned. His personal generosity in the spirit of other’s quality of life and fun is unmatched. He will be deeply missed and his legacy will live on through our acts of service, well timed jokes and the love he continually inspired in all of us.
Sarah
Kilah Willingham
November 15, 2021 at 1:40 pmJeff was our Captain Fun during the years we worked together at Drybar. He was the brightest light, and brought us so much joy. I’ll never forget his kindness.
Mrs. Goad, you and your family have my deepest sympathy.
Randy Cook
November 15, 2021 at 2:39 pmDoris and Matt and all of your family I am so sorry for your loss. Jeff was a kind ,generous ,and caring person. I know he will be deeply missed. Kelly and I are thinking and praying for all of you during your time of loss.
We love you.
Catherine Oyster
November 15, 2021 at 6:54 pmTo Jeff’s family,
I’m very sorry for your loss. I met Jeff back in 2009 in a UCLA producing class. We ended up writing a few scripts together, making a short film, and continuing our friendship after. Always inspiring, Jeff was on the go and always doing something interesting. It was always great to hear about his incredible career, work life and friendships, LA’s Best, Movember and other charities, his love for sports, the Lakers and Rams, and his dream of converting a van and taking a roadtrip. I’m so glad he did that! And had that epic road trip with his mom.
This past weekend I put some flowers on the front porch and looked at the van, and read all of the magnets and stickers. “Fresh Sarcasm, Served Daily!” made me smile to see that.
I will miss him dearly, and send my condolences.
Lynn
November 22, 2021 at 8:02 pmTo Jeff’s Family,
I had the pleasure of working with Jeff for many years at Drybar and have so many wonderful memories! He was a beautiful human being that brought so much light to everyone he encountered. He loved his family so much and will always remember the wonderful stories he shared. He was a special friend. My condolences to you and keeping you in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Kate Neary-Powell
November 24, 2021 at 3:00 pmMy deepest condolences to Jeff’s family and friends. I first met Jeff in late 1994-95. I was new to the area, lonely, and was so grateful to be included in all his wonderful theme parties. We kept the costume rental shops in business back then I think! He was so funny and the best host. I’ve really missed that sense of fun. Gone but never forgotten. A great light has gone out. Rest In Peace my friend.
Eric C.
November 26, 2021 at 1:34 pmJeff, I’m so sorry I hadn’t heard about this until last night. I would have flown to Michigan to pay my respects with a few more hours notice, though I know you are reading this now. From our UCLA Producer class to being the first “tenant” in your guesthouse, I considered you a TRUE friend. You were generous with invites, a dear guest at my wedding, and brought a stuffed LeapFrog to my newborn son. Your hospitality, wit and sense of humor were second to none! This still hasn’t settled in, I miss you already. As you always said, “Don’t Hassle the Castle.” You never did. Godspeed my friend !
Bob & Joanie Nelson
December 3, 2021 at 12:22 pmWe are just TODAY (Dec 3!) learning of Jeff’s passing. He was fully aware of how wonderfully fortunate he and Matt were to be adopted by the nicest, kindest people on the face of the earth. We did not see Jeff very often, but when we did, he was always friendly and in a good mood. Wow— isn’t that just Marv and Doris through and through?! As much as you all loved Jeff, God loves him that much more!
Charles Colagiuri
December 8, 2021 at 7:17 pmJeff welcomed me with open arms in 2008 when I moved to LA and joined him at Neutrogena. Here we are 13 years later, and I cannot find the right words to convey how deeply I feel his loss. We stayed in touch, went to many dinners & sporting events together, and always shared a good laugh about one of our lives. He was a natural Dad with my two sons, and they still talk about the Sunday breakfast he pulled together for my family. He called me from the stands at the Rams-Giants game on 17 October 2021 to see if I was there too, and we spent time together at the stadium and made a pact to get to a Lakers game in early 2022. Never imagined that would be our last face to face connect. Doris – we never met, but know that I hope my boys grow up to be like Jeff. He was loved by all, and I miss him.
Chris Gagliano
January 10, 2022 at 4:47 pmI’m at a loss for words, I just was informed that Jeff passed. I got to know Jeff through work and his love of sports. I will always remember Jeff at one of our fantasy drafts wearing an old school leather football helmet and a Lions jersey, which he ultimately left behind for his new found love of the Rams. Thoughts and prayers to family and friends, I have many good memories as I’m sure you all do. Goady!!
Kate Cushman
July 20, 2022 at 9:51 pmMrs. Goad, Matt, Sarah, Hannah, and Shelby,
Jeff spoke of all of you and you were solid gold to him. He adored you girls, Hannah and Shelby. Jeff was my friend at Waverly High School and we both moved out to LA around the same time. We had dinners, walks and even wrote a rom com together. We would meet every weekend in Santa Monica and connect to write, share laughs and our lives. Jeff was a very dear friend, so generous with his love and light. His smile lit up any room. It was so comforting knowing Jeff was close by. We flew back to Michigan together on occasion and he always had such a way of making you feel like a million bucks, seen and heard. I spoke with Jeff on the phone just before he died and we made a promise to get together. I still recall the comfort Jeff gave to my soul and feel his love and kindness. What an exceptional man and friend. So much love to all who knew him. You are in my heart.
Beneque Cousin
May 11, 2023 at 1:13 pmTo Jeff’s family – I send my deepest sympathy as I can only imagine how you all are feeling.
Jeff has been my mentor since I worked for him in 2009. He was the head of my department and I was just an intern – and he found out I was also a Michigan alumni and from then on he put me under his wing and he was my mentor. Jeff had the ability to find the absolute best in every situation and saw the best in every person and their potential. Jeff has guided me as a mentor professionally and personally for over 10 years – always having wise words of wisdom, sharing good books to read, etc. We’ve shared lots and lots of laughs – some at the expense of Michigan football lol – but Jeff was always there. He loved his family dearly and would talk about you all – all the time.
Jeff – we all love you and miss you so very much. I’ll always keep a seat for you at the big house. Love you.