Paul Robert Goodrich

Paul “Pauley” Robert Goodrich, age 80 passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Friday, April 24, 2026 at Community Hospital South in Indianapolis. He was a resident of Brown County and has left behind a legacy of service, courage and dedication to his community.

Paul was born March 12, 1946 in Indianapolis, to his parents, the late Ralph and Ruth (Webb) Goodrich. He was a 1965 graduate of Lawrence Central High School and went on to proudly serve his country with the United States Air Force in Air Rescue during the Vietnam War.

He retired in 2008 as an over the road truck driver for Yellow Freight. After retirement he served as a driver for RTS for 5 years. He was a member of the Martinsville American Legion Post 230, Martinsville VFW, Unity Baptist Church, and Teamsters Local 135.

Pauley spent two years with the Indianapolis Fire Department, an experience that opened the door to his lifelong commitment to firefighting. He later dedicated himself to serving his community for over 40 years with the Fruitdale Fire Department, Unit 318, where Pauley’s passion for helping others truly shined. During his time with the department, he was known not only for his bravery also for his steady leadership, quick wit, and unwavering support of his fellow firefighters. Pauley was awarded the 2024 Firefighter of the Year for the State of Indiana. Pauley found great purpose in helping others, whether responding to emergencies or mentoring new recruits. His colleagues remember him as someone who could always be counted on—someone who brought both strength and heart to every call.

Beyond his service, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. He enjoyed watching old westerns, John Wayne reruns, listening to country music and attending the Vietnam Tuy Hoa reunions. He was a proud grandfather and his laughter, stories, and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Paul will be missed by his wife of 39 years, Debby (Newlin) Goodrich whom he married on June 27, 1987, daughter Dia Goodrich (Rikki Goodner) and grandchildren, Peyton, Emily and Harper.

Friends may call from 4-8 p.m. on Thursday, April 30th and from 10 -11 a.m. on Friday, May 1st at Meredith Funeral Home: 179 E. Mulberry Street in Morgantown. A service to honor his life will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 1st at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Unity Cemetery with Military Rites presented by the United States Air Force and the Martinsville American Legion & VFW Honor Guards as well as a Last Call by the Fruitdale Fire Department.

In recognition of his dedication to public service, memorial contributions may be made to Fruitdale Volunteer Fire Company: 5200 State Road 135 N. Morgantown, IN 46160.

Condolences may be sent to the family at meredithfuneral.com

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