Vernon Leroy Gooden went to be with his Lord and Savior on July 13, 2018.

Chico, as his family and friends lovingly called him, had a perpetual grin on his face to

greet each person he met. His hands were strong with callouses from helping everyone

in his path. He knew when something needed to be said and what to say, and he knew

when it was best to say nothing at all. He never pushed, only encouraged. He always

had a plan...or, he never let on that he didn't. You could rest assured everything was

under control when Chico was in charge. If you spent time with Chico, you were loved.

He had a quiet strength few men possess. Though he was a man of great presence, he

had a gentleness about him that made people comfortable. The happiness of his

beloved was his first priority. Even now with the loss of this tremendous man, he

wouldn't want us to cry.

Chico began his early adult career as a veteran, selected the trade as a carpenter, was

elected as the leader for the San Antonio Carpenter's Union for twenty years, but most

importantly, to him, he was a family man. He married his high school sweetheart, built a

happy home for his family, all the while being a constant pillar of strength. He is

survived by his wife of 68 years, Verena Gooden; his daughter, Suzy Gooden;

granddaughter, Annie Mayse; brothers and their spouses, Bill and Patricia Gooden,

Sam P. and Joy Gooden, Edwina Gooden and many nephews, nieces, cousins and

devoted friends. (Matt 5:16, Eph 4:32, John 14:1-4)

A Memorial Service celebrating his life will be held on Saturday, July 28, at 2:00 p.m. at Mason Funeral Home. Visitation with the family will follow the service.