James F. Goodwin, 84, was a descendant of a south Texas ranching family with immigrant roots in Ireland. He was a graduate of St. Mary's University with a Master's Degree from Texas A&M Kingsville who excelled in musical studies. He spent his teaching career as a Band Director in San Marcos and Bishop, Texas, and was renowned for being able to play any instrument. He was an avid patron of the arts and loved the time he spent on the Board of the San Antonio International Piano Competition now known as the Gurwitz International Piano Competition.

A true Renaissance man, Jim was educated, sophisticated, dapper, multi-lingual, well-traveled, and a brilliant conversationalist who found a connection with just about everyone he met. He was kindhearted and was loved by many dear friends and a large extended family. Jim inspired many students and friends to achieve goals they never thought they could accomplish, and he celebrated every one of them.

He was known fondly as "Uncle" not only to his many nieces, nephews, friends and extended family members but also to new acquaintances he met on his life's journey; it was a role he cherished. He is survived by his sisters, Cecelia Goodwin Wueste and Kathleen Goodwin, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members for whom he could recite the genealogy connecting them for generations.

The family wishes to specially thank his best friend, Rene Alarcon, for the many years of love and care he provided to Jim as well as his caretaker, Hector Garcia, who was an angel and protector in his last seventeen months of life.

MEMORIAL SERVICE

Saturday, January 29, 2022, a Rosary will be recited at 9:30 a.m. followed by Mass at 10:00 a.m. at St. George Catholic Church, 304 Crockett Street, George West, Texas 78022, with a reception following in the Church Hall. In deference to the frail or infirm, please wear a mask to protect family and friends.

MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS

In lieu of flowers, tributes in Jim's memory may be made to the Gurwitz International Piano Competition or Musical Bridges Around the World.