Harlan Thomas Goodnight, had fulfilling life
Harlan Thomas Goodnight, 77, of Lewes, passed away Friday, Nov. 3, 2023. He was born Aug. 30, 1946, in Washington D.C., son of the late Harlan and Mary E. (Thomas) Goodnight. Harlan had a fulfilling life, leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy that will be forever treasured by his loved ones.
Harlan was a fun-loving person who never took life too seriously. In his early years, he played football for Landover Hills Boys and Girls Club, and was an avid fan of the Washington Senators and Washington Redskins. As a family man, Harlan actively participated in the Beltsville Boys and Girls Club, coaching tee-ball and county baseball teams during the 1980s. His dedication and involvement made a lasting impact on the lives of many young athletes.
A responsible provider and role model, Harlan demonstrated a strong work ethic that his sons admired and imitated, leading them to become responsible and successful adults. Harlan also took on the role of stepfather to three daughters. He stepped up as their father when they needed him most, and helped create a strong and loving foundation. Harlan took immense pride in knowing all his children grew into strong, independent people, and his loved ones are forever grateful for the lasting impact he’s had on their lives.
Harlan was not only a remarkable father, but a devoted and loving husband. He always made it a point to tell everyone how much he loved his wife, Susie. He found joy in her kindness and comfort in her presence. Together they faced life’s peaks and valleys with trust and compassion for each other. After 22 years of marriage, their love can best be summed up by their song, “Look at Us,” by Vince Gill.
Harlan was a stereotypical do-it-yourselfer and found joy in working on projects around the house, brewing homemade beer, and tending to his bountiful garden. As the years went by, Harlan developed a passion for cooking, barbecuing, smoking meat, and woodworking. He found solace in the simple pleasures of life, and will be dearly missed by his family and friends.
In addition to his parents, Harlan was predeceased by his wife, Jaye Goodnight. Harlan is survived by his wife, Susanne Goodnight; his son, Kenneth Goodnight (Lisa); his grandsons, Trevor Goodnight and Aiden Goodnight; his son, Matthew Goodnight (Christina); his stepdaughter, Lisa Zinnamon (Joshua); his granddaughters, Mackenzie Mayers and Hailey Zinnamon; stepdaughter, Shannon Harris (Shawn); grandsons, Travis Harris and Aaron Harris; granddaughter, Morgan Harris; stepdaughter, Tracy Cox (Conor); grandsons, Liam Cox and Wyatt Cox; and many other relatives and friends.
Harlan's educational journey led him to Duval High School, where he graduated with the Class of 1964. Following his education, he embarked on a successful career with C&P Telephone Company, Bell Atlantic Telephone Company, and Verizon.
In honor of Harlan's memory, his family kindly requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society, donate.cancer.org, an organization that held a special place in his heart.
The family plans to hold a celebration of life in honor of Harlan at a later date. Details of the event will be announced once finalized.
Harlan will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His warm smile, kind heart, and unwavering dedication to his loved ones will forever be cherished. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Visit Harlan's Life Memorial webpage and sign his virtual guestbook at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
