Margo Michelle Goodwin Gordon's Obituary
Margo Michelle Goodwin-Gordon, a radiant and multifaceted soul, passed away on July 11, 2024, at the age of 59 in Oakland, CA. Born on March 25, 1965, in St. Louis, MO, Margo was a beacon of light, vivacity, humor and warmth throughout her life.
Educated at El Ceritto High School and furthering her studies at Contra Costa Community College, University of California, Berkeley, and the Academy of Art in San Francisco, Margo's academic journey was as diverse as her career. She flourished in multiple roles including financial and accounting manager, grants and development officer, executive business manager, and architectural designer. Noteworthy career highlights include her tenure at UC Berkeley, her involvement in the UC Berkeley "Big Give" Annual charitable event, and her leadership roles at the Black Repertory Theatre, Women's Alliance program, Crescent City Harbor District, East Bay Center for the Performing Arts, CD&A transportation planners, and Decker Electric Company. Her entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as she ventured into restaurant design and ownership in Healdsburg, CA.
Margo's personal life was enriched by her hobbies which included writing, photography, fashion, and culinary arts. A master gardener, her home and garden were a true reflection of her love for nature and spirituality, exuding harmony and elegance. Margo often expressed that she would live forever in the gardens she passionately cultivated over nearly two decades.
She leaves behind a loving family: her husband John M. Gordon; siblings Risa Durley, Gina Johnson Stelly, Ellen Arlon (Bennie), Todd Goodwin (Coco), Toby Goodwin, Steven Goodwin (Faye), and Greg Goodwin; and numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews, and cousins. Margo was preceded in death by her mother Marcella Goodwin, and siblings Frank Alan Goodwin, Truman Durley, Terry Goodwin, Avis Hall and Julie Von.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 3rd, 2024, at Chapel of the Chimes in Oakland, CA, at 4 PM, conducted by the Rev. Dr. Jacquline Thompson. A viewing will take place the previous day, Friday, August 2nd, from 4 PM to 8 PM at the same location.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Black Girls Rock, Black Women's Health Imperative, National Black Women's Justice Institute, and The Ora Lee Smith Cancer Research Foundation. The Chapel of the Chimes in Oakland, CA, is overseeing the arrangements.
Margo's legacy is imbued with her generosity, vision, and the indelible impact she made on her community and beyond. Her memory and spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her.
What’s your fondest memory of Margo?
What’s a lesson you learned from Margo?
Share a story where Margo's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Margo you’ll never forget.
How did Margo make you smile?