It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of our dear friend, former player & Past President, Dr Jim Goodman.
Despite battling with illness Jim continued to play an active part in the club & will be sadly missed.
We will have more to say about Jim in the coming days.
I have sent our condolences and sympathy to his family.
SJL - Chair
It's always a privilege to pay tribute to someone who has left an indelible mark on their community, and it is people like Dr Jim Goodman who was one of those people. As a gentleman, inspiration, and "raconteur," he clearly embodied values that people respected and admired. He was a passionate family man and an amazing father to his three girls Emily, Lucy & Hannah
As a rugby player for Worcester Rugby Club, Dr Jim no doubt brought that same commitment and passion to the field. Others have spoken of Jim’s involvement with Birmingham University Medical School and he being instrumental in setting up the former players society there.
Rugby is a sport that demands toughness, teamwork, and a never-say-die attitude, Jim embodied all of those qualities. But it wasn't just on the rugby pitch where Dr Jim made an impact. As a doctor, he undoubtedly touched countless lives with his skill, compassion, and dedication. It takes a special kind of person to work in the medical field, and Jim was one of the best.
It's never easy to lose someone who meant so much to so many people, but it's heartening to know that Dr Goodman's (James-Jim)legacy will live on. We witnessed his brave battle with Cancer that he took on in his determined style, never showing signs of complaint or weakness. In fact the very opposite
He had a wicked sense of humour that at times could make the more prudish person’s eyes water but left a lasting impression on everyone that knew him. His attitude to living life to the full and having a good time will remembered by so many people lucky enough to spend time with him and he was still socialising and partying to the very end. His ability to liven up the clubhouse or any event that needed it with his robust renditions of any rugby song that existed will be remembered forever by those that witnessed it. And he had a love of good food, wine, whisky and ale and had plenty of skill and passion in the kitchen whether cooking or eating.
The impact Jim has made on his community, his patients, and his fellow rugby players will not be forgotten, and his example will continue to inspire others for years to come. RIP our friend, and thank you for the countless memories.
We will miss you.
Stephen Lloyd with contributions and assistance from Rob Turner and Richard Everton
Jim Goodman
Jim was a goodman and a clubman. He was a character on and off the field and will be missed but not forgotten.
Jim joined WRFC in 1984 when he was a medical student at Birmingham University. His involvement, however, went back much further – since he was a small child - as his father was a member and player. WRFC was very much in his blood as two of his uncles – Don Everton and Jem Richardson were also WRFC prominent players and members.
Jim played regularly for the club until he had to retire through illness in 2016. Sadly an illness that eventually would take Jim from us all too soon. Jim saw many changes at the club over the years including the growth of the professional game, the creation of the Warriors and our move to Weston. Reflecting Jim’s contribution to the club and the high esteem in which he was held in 2019 he was elected President, an honour held for three years. Jim continued to be a regular face around the club and a friend to many – right to the end. People like Jim don’t come around very often and he will leave a very big gap in our lives.
Rest in peace
Geoff Adams
President
