Thomas Lee Gooch

Mr. Thomas Lee Gooch, was the last born from the Union of the late Tommie Lee and Pennie Gooch. He was born on July 16, 1956, in South Miami, Florida, where he attended grade school. He was affectionately known by his family as 'Bo-Bo" and his peers as "Tom" or "Gooch" At the age of fourteen, Mr. Gooch's parents relocated to Altamonte Springs, Florida, of which he was baptized at St. Peter Freewill Baptist Church, under the leadership of the late Samuel L. Hicks. His favorite songs of which he loved to sing, were "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot," and 'Oh Happy Day." Thomas then attended and graduated from Lyman Highschool, in Longwood, Florida, of which he began and enjoyed playing football, as a wide receiver. Thomas quickly became a merging star athlete, as he became the recipient of most of quarterback, Bee Constantine's passes Wale in an all-time high win over Sanford, all told, Gooch hauled in 3 touchdowns and passes totaling 187 yards He has records that are still showcased as a top Athlete. After graduating in the Class of 1974, he received a scholarship to Ferrum College, in Virginia As a freshman, Gooch was selected to play in the Annual Coastal Conference All-Star Game and became All-American. The team went on to win the National Championship. He remained at Ferrum until 1976, and then went on to play, ending college football in Louisiana. Upon returning home, his life would change soon thereafter, in him becoming a Father. Mr. Gooch would often live and travel from place to place, becoming known by many in Altamonte Springs, Miami, Jacksonville and many more. The first person he would always call, was his daughter, Natosha, whom he loved dearly. Their bond and love remained. He was a devoted Father and "Grandaddy Gooch'. He truly loved and cherished his grandchildren. He was ecstatic in becoming a great grandfather. He was also the best "Uncle Bo-Bo" to many and always had a love and passion for football. Mr. Gooch departed this life, on February 21, 2025, in St. Augustine, Florida. He was preceded in death by his parents Tommie Lee Gooch Sr. and Pennie Gooch; a brother John Ross, Sr.; sisters, Cora Brown and Benetha Gooch. Mr. Gooch leaves not to mourn, but to cherish, fond memories: his daughter, Natosha Simpson, of Lake Mary, FL; 4 grandchildren: Quane shia Florence, Adam Shuler, Briauna Simpson and Jamiyah Simpson; 2 great-grandchildren: Amir Williams and Jhaki Robinson. Sisters: Lola McKoy of Philadelphia, PA, Mary Ross of Altamonte Springs, FL, Yvonne Hickson Elder John), Annie Dunbar(Isaiah), and Rose Scipio, all of Orlando, FL, and a host of nieces, nephews and sorrowing friends.

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Thomas Lee Gooch

July 16, 1956 - February 21, 2025