With heavy hearts and thankful spirits for a life well lived, we honor the memory of Sammy Lee Goodloe Sr., a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin, and grandfather whose roots ran deep in Big Lake, Texas. Born on February 4, 1951, and called home on February 26, 2026, his life was marked by faith, grit, laughter, and a steadfast love for his family and community.
Known for his easy smile, steady handshake, and unwavering faith, Sammy left a lasting mark on everyone who crossed his path. For 58 years, he worked in and around the oil fields of Big Lake, believing in honest work, long days, and taking care of his own. He started out with a roustabout gang, later drove trucks hauling oil and water, took early retirement from Marathon Oil as a dedicated pumper, and later retired from Discovery Natural Resources as a respected foreman. Long before and in between, he was a hard worker in every sense of the word- busting suds, mowing lawns, and doing whatever it took to provide. He showed up daily with grit, determination, and humor.
He was preceded in death by his precious daughter, Demetria; his son, Sammy Jr., whom he carried in his heart every single day; and his beloved parents, Maurice and Betty Goodloe.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 26 years, Toni (lovingly known as “Mama G”)whom he married on June 1, 2001. Together they built a beautiful life at “The Ranch” in Burnet, Texas, surrounded by their cherished fur babies, Cha Cha, Peanut, and Scrappy. He is also survived by his children: Shawn, Tammy, Ebony, Sarah, Mandy, and Will; his loving brother, Billy Rose; and a wide circle of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends who were blessed to call him theirs.
Family meant everything to him. Summers and family reunions were spent at Fort Clark Springs in Brackettville, Texas, gathering at “The School Yard,” sharing stories, laughter, and honoring their heritage. As a direct descendant of the Black Seminole Indians and connected to the scout association, he carried deep pride in his roots and passed that legacy on with honor.
When he wasn’t working, you could find him riding his road motorcycle down an open highway, tending a smoker full of the best BBQ around, perfecting his hot sauce recipe, or stirring a pot of menudo made with love. And if it was a sunny day, chances were he was on the golf course. To his golfing buddies he was affectionately referred to him as “Goodie” and “Goodie Two Shoes”. He was more than a playing partner. He was the storyteller in the cart, the encourager on the green, and the friend who made every round better.
His servant’s heart extended beyond family and friends. He was awarded a Red Cross Certificate of Merit for saving a child’s life after finding a mother in distress as her child choked on a piece of candy. Without hesitation, he stepped in just as he always did steady, calm, and courageous.
Above all, he was a man of faith. His life was a testament to simple, enduring truths: work hard, love your family, help your neighbor, and keep your faith close. He trusted the Lord through every season and now rests in the peace he so often spoke about.
In true Southern fashion, we won’t say goodbye, just “see you later, Goodie.” We take comfort knowing he’s found the finest fairway in Heaven, where the greens are true, the sun is warm, and the company is everlasting.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Visitation will be held at Bethlehem Baptist Church, 501 S California Ave, Big Lake, Texas, on March 7, 2026, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. A Funeral Service will immediately follow at 1:30 pm.
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