James LeRay Goodfellow passed away peacefully on 16 February 2026 with loving family by his side.  James was born on 22 November 1935 in Bingham Canyon to Fern May (Bell) and Daniel Glen Goodfellow.

He spent his growing up years in Utah, Montana, and Alaska which shaped his lifelong love of nature.  He and Judy took their large family across the country several times in a van and pop-up trailer to visit family in Montana, Utah and California, visiting national parks and electrical sub-stations along the way. He loved the great outdoors and found joy in sharing the beauty of God's creations.

Jim also loved cars and spent a lot of time customizing his cars as a youth. He could still identify makes and models well into his 80s.  He also loved his pets, dogs and cats, who showered him with love and affection.

His faith in the Savior Jesus Christ was the foundation for his life and he tried to always follow Christ's teachings. He served a three-year mission in Taiwan (Southern Far East Mission) for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He loved sharing the gospel and loved the people in Taiwan. He learned Mandarin and used it every chance he got.

Jim was known for his work ethic, his desire to serve and his tenaciousness.  When he set his mind to a goal, he always found a way to be successful.  James was trained as an electrical engineer and was a whiz at math and details.  He worked for Westinghouse and then Cooper Power Systems in their marketing divisions, where he was frequently recognized for exceeding sales goals.

Jim loved singing and he is remembered often practicing his tenor part for choir performances.   From Elvis Presley to folk songs to gospel hymns, music was a language that spoke to him.

His passions of music, travel, hard work well-done, and service will be his legacy to his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

James is survived by his wife Judith Ann, his children Jennifer (David) Bradley, Jessica (Naohiko) Ueno, Jamie (Scott) Rippy, Stephen (Missi) Goodfellow, Joell (Steve) Genzer, JaNee (Scott) Russon, Joyanne Goodfellow, and Julayne (Peter) Sallay; and his 20 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his four sisters:  Darlene Hildreth, Glenna Meine, Kathy Bird, and Peggy Arsenault.  He is predeceased by a son George Jeffrey.

Celebration of Life

Saturday 28 February 2026

LDS Church-Aliso Viejo

22851 Aliso Creek Rd, Aliso Viejo, CA

Viewing will be at 10 am

Services at 11 am

Please email goodfellowj@gmail.com for access to recorded service