Goodwin
MORGANTOWN -- Stephen P. Goodwin, an attorney and past chairman of the West Virginia University Board of Governors, died April 21 at the age of 62.
Goodwin had been hospitalized at Ruby Memorial Hospital for three weeks with shingles, which led to serious complications, including liver, kidney and brain ailments.
WVU President James P. Clements said Goodwin, a graduate of WVU, served his alma mater proudly and in many ways.
"He truly loved WVU and West Virginia, dedicating his life's work to both," Clements said. "He was a respected and well-known attorney whose energy seemed to know no bounds. Above all, he adored his family. I want to extend my deepest sympathies to his wife Ellen, his children, his grandchildren, and his extended family during this extremely difficult time."
Stephen L. Douglas, president and CEO of the WVU Alumni Association, said they have lost a very loyal Mountaineer.
"Steve Goodwin always commented that some of the most memorable times of his life occurred during his service on the WVU Alumni Association Board of Directors, where he served as its 100th president," Douglas said. "He was a dedicated volunteer, a strong leader, a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and loyal supporter of our great University. The alumni family has very heavy hearts today. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ellen and the entire Goodwin family during this difficult time."
Goodwin was first appointed to the WVU Board of Governors in 2002 and was reappointed and elected chairman in 2006. He resigned from the board last fall. The woman who succeeded him as chair, Carolyn Long, said she always appreciated his leadership and kindness.
"One thing is certain: Steve Goodwin truly loved this University and he served it unselfishly," Long said. "I appreciated his leadership and his kindness to me as a new BOG member and then as Board chair. He was my friend, and I am sad to lose someone who I admired and who did so much for this University."
Gov. Joe Manchin said he was saddened to hear about the passing of one of the most honorable men he had met and that he considered him a dear friend.
"He was a well-respected professional in the legal community and was extremely generous with his time, knowledge and expertise when asked to take on public service," Manchin said. "Steve's passing is a tremendous loss. Gayle and I extend our deepest condolences to his wife Ellen, his children: Carte, Aly, Ryan and the entire Goodwin family. They will be in our thoughts and prayers."
Goodwin's survivors include his wife, Ellen; children Carte, Aly and Ryan; and three grandchildren.
