Zach: The Sweet Boy With Soulful Eyes

This past Tuesday night at 12 pm, the phone rang.   I heard it, but it took a minute to register.  The phone number on the TV said my Isabella, but I didn’t get to the phone on time.   I grabbed my cell phone thinking she was in a car accident, or somebody got arrested.  My cell phone said I missed a call from my brother, Christopher.  Then I noticed a text from him saying to call him ASAP.

Adrenaline pumping, I called my brother because I know this is who I need to call first.  He must have called Isabella when he couldn’t get me.  My first thought was something happened to my mother.   He said “Sandra,”  and I, in a total panic said, “What-what happened?”  and he said, “it’s Zach.”   It couldn’t be – I couldn’t understand.  He can’t be saying these things to me…

Zachary J. Goodwin

Zach was a handsome young man of 28.   He was a thoughtful, considerate and well-mannered human being.   Quick with a hug, my favorite greeting,  because that shows you they mean it.

He was brilliant and a fighter.  Zach fought hard with his life, especially the last 6 – 7 years.  He struggled with some demons in college, but never gave up because he loved to learn.   Defying the odds,  he overcame some of his obstacles and graduated Summa Cum Laude from Western Connecticut State University.   He had a full life ahead of him.

Life took another turn, and the battle escalated.   He fought hard, but unfortunately grew weary.  The darkness had become too much to bear, and he needed to escape the torment.  Sadly, the war has ended, but his legacy will forever be in our hearts: a legacy of strength, love, wonder, and learning.

Zach was a competitive bowler and the best game player ever whether it be cards, Apples to Apples or Connect 4.   He took pride in his analytical brain and ability to continually win at whatever he was playing.   He was known as the family champ at Connect 4; nobody could ever beat him.   If my memory is correct, I did beat him ONCE and bragged the rest of the day.  If I am wrong about that win, he will let me know one night in my dreams.

But this is how I will remember him, a winner, a family guy, a fighter, a gentle, sweet soul with a great smile.   He deserved more, but life can be cruel.   My heart is broken, but his soul is free.  There is a beautiful new star lighting up the night sky, and his name is Zachary Goodwin.

We love you, Zach – Rest in Peace with God, you have earned it.

I published a post some months ago with the following song.  The song feels relevant again so please enjoy while looking at some pictures of Zach and maybe reflect on somebody you wish you had five more minutes with … 

Memories & Photos of Zach

       That you had five more minutes…

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just five more minutes…

A Poem for Zach

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If you think you or someone you know needs help, please Call 1-800-273-8255 – The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Much Love and Hugs Always,

#enlighten #empower #inspire #educate and please always #BeKind