John David Goss

John David Goss, 64, died Wednesday, March 20, 2019 in the arms of his family. John, son of the late Robert Dixon Goss and Patricia Goss Retzloff, was born November 1, 1954 in Little Rock, Arkansas, his lifelong home. He is survived by his wife, Trina, son, Forrest Dixon Goss, daughter, Rebecca Dwyer, grandchildren, Cole Dwyer, Emmett Dwyer and Brett Dwyer, and his mother, Patti; sisters, Leigh Goss Parks (Matthew) and Jane D. Evans (Robert I. Thomas) and brother, Robert Dixon Goss (Marcia); nieces, Loriee Evans (Mark Funk), Lisa Jane Evans (Cliff Anderson), Rachel Parks and Emily Lakemaker (Jarvis); nephew, Houston Parks (Kim); stepsisters, Diane Haynes and Linda Yates, and stepbrother Brad Retzloff. John was a master carpenter who created beauty and utility from virtually anything. During his time, he proudly remodeled and built many grand homes in Hillcrest, the Heights, and beyond, where his work will endure for decades to come. He was an avid reader and music lover who knew something about everything. His quick wit and sense of humor were unparalleled. His personality drew people to him; his trustworthiness earned him lifelong friendships with characters from all backgrounds. He valued community and always loved his neighbors. John almost always had a dog or a cat companion (often both). Monster, a calico kitten with whom John would play fetch, survives and already misses him. Johnny also loved horses, particularly the ones racing at Oaklawn on sunny Spring days. Perhaps above all, John loved the solitude and sanctuary of time spent outdoors. He taught his children about hunting and fishing, and spent many years on all of Arkansas' lakes with Trina by his side. John joined the United States Army when he was 17 years old and served proudly. He and his family are grateful to the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System for excellent and compassionate care. The VA Palliative Care Unit and Arkansas Hospice provided resourceful and comforting end of life care. A memorial celebration of John's life will be scheduled in late April. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Women's Own Worth (www.womensownworth.com), El Zo'calo Immigrant Resource Center (www.zocalocenter.com) and/or Arkansas Hospice (www.arkansashospice.org). Arrangements have been entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service, Jacksonville, Arkansas. John's online guestbook is available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com.