Jonesboro, AR – Jonesboro Right Now – Richard Dale Goggins, affectionately known throughout Jonesboro as the “Shoeshine Man,” died at St. Bernards Medical Center Monday at the age of 74.
According to an obituary published by Emerson Funeral Home, Richard’s work shining shoes evolved into “a lifetime of friendships, familiar faces, and meaningful connections.”
The obituary noted that beyond his recognizable presence around town, Richard was a longtime custodian at the Craighead County Courthouse, where his dedication became a part of daily life for the county’s employees. He also enjoyed rodeos, cattle farming, and tuning in to “Down Home Harmonies” every Sunday on KASU.
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Over the years, Richard formed enduring friendships with everyday citizens, courthouse staff, and prominent local figures like the late Sheriff Floyd Johnson and J.T. Barr, as well as a close friendship with Paul Wadell. He was also an active member of First Baptist Church, where he built strong relationships with his church family.
“While many will remember him as the ‘Shoeshine Man,’ his family and friends will remember him as someone who they loved dearly,” the obituary said.
Born in Jonesboro on Sept. 18, 1952, to John Tolton Goggins and Opal Lozell Goggins, he was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Larry Gene Goggins and Donald Martin Goggins, and niece Jeannie Ann Rousey.
He is survived by his daughter, Goldie Marie Goggins-Freeman; his sister, Margarett Ann Freeman; nieces Edie Hudson and Ladon Jones; and several great-nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 28, at 11 a.m. at the Pine Log Cemetery on County Road 762 near Brookland, with Jason McCall officiating. Emerson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Pallbearers will be Jay Jones, Jake Jones, Josh Harris, Colton Harris, Mike Overfield, and Chris Hanson. Members of the Craighead County Sheriff’s Association and his First Baptist Church Sunday school class will serve as honorary pallbearers.
Richard’s full obituary and online guestbook can be found here.
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