Kent Johnson Gooch, Sr.

Kent Johnson Gooch, age 61, passed away, from cancer, surrounded by his family and friends at his home on March 22, 2008. Born October 30, 1946 in Lake Wales, Kent was a citrus farmer and cattle rancher who enjoyed golfing and making others laugh. Kent was a devoted and loving father and one of the best stewards for the Florida citrus industry. Kent attended Episcopal High School in Alexandria, VA and graduated from Lake Wales High School, after having an illustrious football and track career. Kent also served in the Florida National Guard. Kent went on to attend the University of Virginia, Centre College, and Polk Community College. Kent obtained a Master's level of education in Citrus Management and recognized by many from the University of Florida as an expert in the citrus industry. He was the only elected President of the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences who did not actually attend the University of Florida. Kent was actively involved in the Citrus Showcase and tending to his Cracker cows. Kent was preceded in death by his wife, Johnnie Sue Gooch along with his parents, Stapleton D. Gooch Jr. and Thalia Johnson Gooch. He is survived by his son, Kent Johnson Gooch, Jr. (Laken) of Tulsa, OK, his brother Stapleton D. Gooch, IV of Tampa, two sisters; Thalia Ann Gooch (Mrs. Robbie) Stoddard of Wagener, SC, and Mary Lisa Gooch Koehler of Greenville, SC. He also leaves behind numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. Arrangements are being handled by Whidden-McLean Funeral Home 650 East Main Street in Bartow where family will receive friends Tues. March 25, 2008 from 6 PM to 8 PM. Services will follow Wednesday at 2:00 PM at St. Peter's Episcopal Church 302 Carey Street Plant City, FL 33563. Interment will immediately follow at Wildwood Cemetery in Bartow. The family requests no flowers. Memorial donations should be made to St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Plant City.