Carl M. Goode
Obituary for Carl M. Goode Jr.
On August 5, 2024, surrounded by his loving family, Major Carl Matthew Goode Jr. of Bowie, Maryland, entered into eternal rest. A true soldier, he transitioned peacefully from this world, answering the call of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Born on November 1, 1954, in Stuttgart, Germany, Carl was the son of the late LTC (Ret) Carl M. Goode, Sr. and Mildred A. Goode. A global citizen with deep roots in Petersburg, Virginia, he spent his formative education years in Japan, France, and Germany, cultivating a broad worldview.
Destined for a life of service and learning, Carl was a pioneer in education. He and his siblings were among the first Black students to integrate the Petersburg Public School System. He graduated from Petersburg High School and then went on to attend the prestigious West Point Military Academy, where he honed his skills in discipline and service. His commitment to excellence continued at the University of Richmond, where he earned a B.A. in Economics, and at National Louis University, where he obtained a Master’s in Education with a concentration in curriculum development. A naturally gifted and standout athlete, Carl excelled in the sports of football, baseball, and wrestling. Particularly gifted at football, he thrived as a safety and tailback while at West Point. He relished the physicality of the game and football remained one of his lifelong passions.
Carl’s early career was spent dedicated to distinguished military service. Rising from Private to Major in less than 20 years, he served several overseas tours in Germany, Japan, South America, and Central America. His military service included commanding a mechanized infantry company, and serving in various leadership roles, including chief logistician for a battalion, mortar unit officer, and personnel officer for a brigade. He earned the distinguished honor of being an Airborne Ranger and amassing accolades to include the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Service Star, Parachutist Badge, Ranger Tab, and numerous other expert badges. Given his level of expertise, he also served as a weapons instructor. He was committed and proud to serve his country and sincerely loved the time he spent in the Army. As a lasting symbol of his service, he will be laid to final rest at Quantico National Cemetery.
While serving, Carl pledged Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and embodied the organization’s principles of leadership, scholarship, and service. The discipline, camaraderie, and unwavering commitment to accomplishing any mission instilled in Carl during his time at West Point and subsequent military service were the bedrock upon which he built his extraordinary life. His ability to adapt to challenging situations, coupled with his innate sense of duty and honor, were hallmarks of his character. These qualities, forged in the crucible of military experience, served him well throughout his career as an educator and community leader.
After a distinguished military career, Carl transitioned to a civilian role as an educator. He excelled as a classroom teacher in Chesterfield County, Virginia; the District of Columbia; and Prince George’s County, Maryland becoming a highly sought-after expert in standardized test preparation. His influence extended to universities including University of Maryland, Howard University, and Virginia State University, where he shared his knowledge and expertise.
He co-founded and led the Empowering Minds Foundation, Inc (EMF). As President for over eight years, he transformed the organization into a powerful force for educational equity. Under his leadership EMF expanded its reach, providing high-quality test preparation courses to countless students and opening doors to higher education. Carl was deeply committed to his students and raising educational standards. He worked tirelessly to provide his students with opportunities and prepare them for college success.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Carl was a dedicated family and community servant. Involved in organizations such as the Ernest Everett Just Foundation, M-Tech, Mentors ONE on ONE, Valu-Teachers, and A Kingdom Men, he mentored and inspired countless young people. His passion for education and his unwavering commitment to uplifting others created a lasting legacy. His impact will be felt for generations to come.
He was preceded in death by his father, LTC (Ret) Carl M. Goode, Sr.; mother, Mildred A. Goode; sister, Pearl A. Goode; brother, Capt. (Ret) Alfred A. Goode, Sr.; and nephew, Alfred A. Goode, Jr.
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife: Magdalene Goode, one son: Antwaune Goode (Jackee), eight daughters: Dr. Nikita Garris-Watson (Bishop James), Sachiko Wooten (Markus), Tiffeny Jones (Jason), Brandi Lambert (Quintrail), Cierra Gravely (Wesley), Mildred Goode, Carlene Goode, Floannie Goode, sister: Sachiko Goode, sister-in law: Beverly Goode, two nieces: Michelle Goode, Melodie Goode, sixteen grandchildren and a host of other family and friends.
The Carl M. Goode Jr. Scholarship fund has been established to honor his commitment to education. If you would like to contribute to the scholarship fund, please visit: www.givesendgo.com/carlmgoodejr
Special Parking Information (PDF with images can be found in the Tribute Wall of this website):
Guests of the visitation and funeral services for Carl M. Goode, Jr. on Friday, August 23rd are only permitted to park at the University of Maryland – College Park Regents Drive garage.
Guests are NOT PERMITTED to park in any other areas on the campus or they will risk being towed.
Regents Drive Garage Address:
8056 Regents Drive
College Park, MD 20740
Parking in the garage is FREE for all guests.
Four university shuttles will be at the garage to take guests to the Chapel in lieu of walking. It is about a 7 minute walk to the Chapel. The shuttle service is FREE for all guests.
Chapel address:
7764 Regents Drive