Paul Goodridge

Paul Goodridge, 89, of Merrimack, NH, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving wife, Liz, and his children at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack.

Born on January 14, 1935, in Rexville, NY, to Mary (Chisolm) Goodridge and father Clair O’Harrigan-Johnson. Paul was lovingly raised by his mother Mary and father, Virgil Goodridge. He held a deep pride in his Irish heritage, tracing his maternal grandparents back to Ireland.

A graduate of Whiteville Central High School, Paul excelled academically, continuing his education at Alfred University with a degree in Engineering, followed by a Master’s Degree in Mathematics from the University of Buffalo.

On June 16, 1956, Paul married the late Anne (Cooney). Together, they lovingly referred to their family as “The Goodridges” and raised ten children–five boys and five girls, akin to two basketball teams.

Paul’s career was marked by success in several companies, including Sprague Electric, McDonnell Douglas, and Silverline. Known for his analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, he had a profound respect for knowledge and learning.

A solid contributor in his community, Paul was a founding member of the Merrimack Youth Association in 1968, advocating for the importance of athletics in education, to teach critical thinking, discipline, and teamwork. He coached numerous MYA and Merrimack High School freshman basketball teams, often working alongside his son Tim, the varsity coach. Paul was instrumental in bringing wrestling to Merrimack High School. His son Joe was the first state wrestling champion in 1989. Paul continued as an avid sports fan attending many of his children and grandchildren’s events.

Paul valued public education, serving three terms on the Merrimack School Board. He had a passion for reading history, particularly the Civil War. He was also a published author.

Despite being an only child, of an only child, Paul connected with a half-sister, Sue, later in life. He was the patriarch to a large family, leaving behind ten children, twenty-seven grandchildren and twenty-one great-grandchildren. His legacy includes the core values of a strong work ethic, discipline, responsibility, and respect which he instilled in his children. As a quiet lonely widower in his 80’s Paul often ate dinner at the Village Eatery. The waitstaff were persistent in their efforts to introduce him to a lovely lady who also dined alone. A beautiful love story began that filled his final chapter with laughter and joy. It’s a reminder that it’s never too late to find true love if you keep your heart open.

Predeceased by his former wives, Anne Cooney, Eileen and Marie, his daughter Mary K. Kopp (2016), and great-grandson Logan (2009), Paul is survived by his devoted wife, Liz Langley; children Tim (Starr), Laurie (Finlay) Rothhaus, Theresa (Pat) Dogherty, son-in-law Phil Kopp, Bridget (John) Burkett, Paula (Pat) Walsh, Tom, Pat (Bobbie), Dennis (Tegan), and Joe (Karen Ray); and his cherished grandchildren Tavis (Christian), Patrick (Laura), John (Amy), Chris (Danielle), Kellie (Blake), Brian (Jess), Ryan (Brooke), Erin (Mike), Sarah (Dan), Joe (Chrissy), Emily, Tim (Emily), Danny (Kendra), Andy (Shona), Brianne (Tim), Katie, John, James, Colin, Carly, Dillon, Samantha, Megan, Kayla, Emma, Jameson, Molly.

Paul Goodridge’s life was a testament to the impact one person can have on their community and family. His memory will be cherished and honored by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations may be made to:

Community Hospice House, 7 Executive Park Drive, Merrimack, NH 03054, Merrimack Youth Association P.O. Box 153, Merrimack, NH 03054 or to Catholic Charities Joyce Family Food Pantry 67 East Pearl Street, Wellsville, NY 14895.

Memorial calling hours will be held in the Rivet Funeral Home, 425 Daniel Webster Hwy, Merrimack, NH on Sat. March 23, 2024 from 10 am – 12 pm. Funeral service will be held in the funeral home at 12 pm. Burial will follow in the Last Rest Cemetery, Merrimack. A family reception will be held in the American Legion Post 98, 43 Baboosic Lake Rd, Merrimack, NH from 1:30 to 4 pm.

Kindly visit rivetfuneralhome.com to leave an online condolence for the family.