HOWARD WILSON GOODEN, SR., 78, of Colliers, WV died peacefully on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at PAM Hospital in Oakdale, PA. He was born on January 17, 1947, in Elkins, WV a son of the late Glenville Merl and Thelma Grace (Powley) Gooden. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by one son, Preston; two sisters, Mary Fitzwater and Candace King; one brother, Ricky Gooden; and his first wife and the mother of his children, Donna McCloud. Howard proudly served his country in the United States Army for 10 years having two tours in Vietnam. Howard retired from Davison Elkins College Chief of Security and Anta Lab in Beckley, WV; In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, riding Harleys, and most of all spending time with his family. Howard is survived by his beloved wife, Susie Gooden at home; four sons: Don Gooden, Ron (Tracy) Gooden, Howard “Jake” (Jenna) Gooden, Jr, all of Elkins, WV and Ricky (Elizabeth) Hollis of Marietta, GA; seven grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; one sister, Tammy Fenton of Montrose, WV; his furry friend Gabbi; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. There was no visitation. All services and inurnment were held privately. Arrangements were under the direction of Mullenbach Funeral Home, Follansbee.