Howard Goodman was a gospel music legend who founded the Happy Goodman Family, one of the most popular and influential groups in the genre. He was known for his powerful voice, charismatic personality, and passionate faith. He died on November 30, 2002, at the age of 81. But what was the cause of his death? How did he spend his last days? And what legacy did he leave behind? Here is a brief overview of Howard Goodman’s life and death.
Early Life and Career
Howard Goodman was born on November 7, 1921, in Dora, Alabama. He was one of eight children in a musical family. He started singing with his brothers Sam and Rusty in the 1940s, performing contemporary Christian and southern gospel songs. In 1949, he married Vestal Freeman, a talented singer who joined the group. They formed the Happy Goodman Family, which included various combinations of their siblings and children over the years.
The Happy Goodman Family became one of the most successful and beloved groups in gospel music history. They recorded dozens of albums, won two Grammy Awards, and were inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. They also hosted two popular television programs, The Gospel Singing Jubilee and The Happy Goodman Family Hour, which reached millions of viewers across the country. They were known for their energetic and joyful performances, their harmonious blend of voices, and their uplifting messages of faith.
Health Problems and Death
Howard Goodman suffered from several health problems in his later years. He had diabetes, arthritis, and heart issues. He also underwent a knee surgery in 2002, which led to various complications and infections. He was hospitalized for seven months, undergoing therapy and rehabilitation. He developed pneumonia a week before his death.
On November 30, 2002, Howard Goodman passed away at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. According to Wikipedia, his death was caused by a heart attack. He was surrounded by his family and friends, who sang hymns and prayed with him until his last breath.
Legacy and Impact
Howard Goodman’s death was mourned by many fans and fellow artists in the gospel music industry. He was praised for his contribution to the genre, his influence on other singers, and his example of Christian living. He was also remembered for his love for his wife Vestal, who continued to perform until her own death in 2003.
Howard Goodman’s legacy lives on through his music, which is still enjoyed by many people today. His songs have been covered by numerous artists, such as Tanya Goodman Sykes, the daughter of his brother Rusty. His group has also been featured in documentaries, books, and tribute concerts.
Howard Goodman was a gospel music legend who left a lasting mark on the world. His cause of death was a heart attack, but his spirit lives on in his songs and his family. He was a happy man who made others happy with his music and his faith.
