Robert "Bob" B. Gooden

Robert "Bob" B. Gooden, 88, of Meadville, passed away peacefully into the arms of his Lord on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Hamot Medical Center, with his beloved Betty at his side.

Bob was born in Fort Myers, FL on August 4, 1938, a son of the late Calvin Q. and Myrtle (Wilson) Gooden.

On April 17, 1972, Bob married the love of his life, Elizabeth "Betty" Baker; she survives.

For many years, he attended First Baptist Church, Meadville.

After 33 years in banking, Bob retired on September 6, 1996, from National City Bank. He began his successful career with the former Merchants Bank and Trust Company on May 13, 1963, and worked through it's many mergers along the way. Following his retirement from banking, Bob and Betty enjoyed working together for 26 years as drivers for Palmiero Toyota; they cherished this new found time together. A US veteran, Bob entered the Army on September 8, 1960, and served his country honorably until his discharge on August 24, 1962. Most of his service time was spent with an artillery unit in Germany. Bob was a 1957 graduate of Meadville High School where he played on two Section 2 and one District 10 championship basketball teams, and was captain of the baseball team his senior year. For many years, he was a member of the Crawford County Basketball and Football Officials. An avid sports fan, Bob loved following sports, especially the Pittsburgh Steelers. He also enjoyed golfing. Bob will be most remembered as a kind, caring, loving, and generous gentleman. He was loved by all who knew him and will be sadly missed.

Robert is survived by his two favorite girls, wife Betty of 54 years, daughter Susan Louise Toulson (David) of Evans, GA; his brothers and sisters in law Robert Baker (Sandy) of Farmington, NY, Bonnie Roberts of Oneida, NY, William Baker (Glenna) of Evans, GA, Brenda Holcomb (John) of Greencastle, PA, John Baker (Mary) of Bluffton, SC; many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Robert was preceded in death by his mother Myrtle Gooden Barco, step dad George W. Barco who was a true father figure; parents in law Robert and Ruth Baker; sister in law Kathy Albertini Baker; and brother in law Harold Roberts.

Family and friends are invited to call from 4-6 PM on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at STEPHEN P. MIZNER FUNERAL HOME, 404 CHESTNUT ST., MEADVILLE, where Funeral Services will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026, at 11 AM with Pastor Steve Mattocks of First Baptist Church officiating.

Bob will be laid to rest in Greendale Cemetery with Full Military Honors by VFW Post #2006.

Memorial contributions may be made in Bob's memory to First Baptist Church, 353 Chestnut St., Meadville, PA 16335.

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