Date of Service:
August 15, 2024
Let the family know you care by sharing this tribute.
James Terrell (Terry) Goff, 87 passed peacefully on August 7, 2024 at the VNA Hospice House. Born in Winter Haven, Florida to James A. and Nora Hancock Goff, he attended public schools in Winter Haven, graduating from Winter Haven High School before attending the University of Florida. He interrupted his studies to serve his country in the United States Army. Upon discharge, he completed his education at Florida Southern College, earning a degree in accounting.
In 1971, he moved his family to Vero Beach where he resided until his death. He was actively involved in many organizations within the community including the Indian River County Taxpayers Association, The Civic Association, Pelican Island Audubon Society, Kiwanis Club and the founder of the Treasure Coast Bicycle Club. Having an interest in local politics, he was elected to the Vero Beach City Council where he served two terms as Mayor.
In 1980 he established and opened his tax practice, Terry Goff, PA. where he worked until his retirement. He was President of the Florida Society of Enrolled Agents and instrumental in starting the Treasure Coast Chapter of Enrolled Agents.
He was member of, and attended Central Assembly of God in Vero Beach. He volunteered his time, talent and treasure to many in need expecting nothing in return.
In his leisure time, he enjoyed reading, watching sports, news and old movies but was happiest in his boat with rod in his hand a fish on the line. He also enjoyed traveling, sharing his experiences and picture of travels through all seven continents.
He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Lucille (Lu), daughter Elizabeth (Betsy) Gonzalez, sons Mike, Stephen and Jeffrey, nine grandchildren, one great grandchild and brother Charles.
He is preceded in death by his parents and grandson, Jonathon Gonzalez.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday at 2:00PM, August 15, 2024 at Riverside Assembly of God, 11205 Roseland Road, Sebastian, FL 32958.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested contributions to VNA Hospice House, Vero Beach High School Unified Sports, or your favorite charity.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
© 2024 Lowther Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
Adam and Katie Butler - Friend
August 12, 2024, 1:06 pm
We were sorry to hear of Terry passing, but we know he’s at peace. We are thankful for having met Terry and Lu and for their gift of friendship. We pray for peace and understanding for the family as they navigate the loss of Terry.
Pauk Wendy - Friend
August 12, 2024, 1:26 pm
A true gentleman at peace, I will miss his kind manner and his compassion to those around him.My condolences to Lu and all his family.
Mary Kendall - Friend
August 12, 2024, 5:07 pm
“Well done, thou good and faithful son! Enter into your rest!”, I can just hear Jesus saying this to our dear Terry! Also, all of heaven is rejoicing because a loved one has come home. He will be sorely missed! Love and hugs to Lu and all the family!
Michael Bagby - Friend
August 12, 2024, 6:27 pm
Terry was a very gracious man who went out of his way to care for others.
Toni Cress - Friend
August 12, 2024, 9:47 pm
I had the pleasure working for Terry for many, many years. He saw potential in me and took me under his wing and shared his vast business/tax knowledge – for that, I am truly thankful. He was a blessing to all who truly knew him. I will miss him but have peace knowing that he was welcomed into God’s kingdom with open arms. Love to Lu and his family❤️
Sandi Gallant - Friend
August 12, 2024, 11:26 pm
Dear Lu, we are saddened to hear of the passing of Terry. We always enjoyed seeing you both on the cruise ships. He was such a nice man & very funny. He’ll be greatly missed by all who knew him. We will keep you and your family in our thoughts & prayers. God Bless you. Sandi & Paul Gallant. Clermont, Fl.
Stephen and Linda Short - Friends
August 13, 2024, 1:15 am
It is so hard to let those you love go but how wonderful for Terry to be in the Presence of Jesus! He was such a blessing to us over so many years and I am so thankful for what Jesus did on the cross so that we KNOW we will see him again! Prayers for Lu and family!