Charles “Darrell” Gooden, born September 6, 1951, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, with his beloved wife, Deborah “Debbie” Gooden, by his side after a battle with metastatic adenocarcinoma.

Darrell will be remembered for his generous heart, quiet strength, and the lasting impact he made on his family, community, and all who knew him.

A graduate of the University of West Florida with a degree in accounting, Darrell made an enduring impact on his community through business leadership, philanthropy, and his unwavering support of UWF.

In 1980, Darrell founded Gooden Homes, Inc., a homebuilding company that went on to construct more than 3,000 homes throughout the Pensacola area. As CEO, he led the company to earn numerous Parade of Homes awards, including multiple honors for Outstanding Home. In 2009, he was named Builder of the Year by the Home Builders Association of West Florida.

Darrell’s dedication to the University of West Florida was one of his greatest passions. As the largest donor in the history of UWF athletics, he served on the UWF Foundation Board of Directors, was a member of the Sword & Shield Club, and was a founding supporter of UWF Football. The Darrell Gooden Center opened in 2018, and in November 2025 he was inducted into the UWF athletics Hall of Fame. His lead gift to build the university’s new on campus football stadium was among the largest in UWF history. He was able to attend its groundbreaking in February 2026, and the stadium that carries his name, Darrell Gooden Stadium, is scheduled to open in 2027.

Darrell and Debbie met in 2009, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. They shared a passion for traveling, exploring destinations such as Costa Rica, Switzerland, and the British Virgin Islands. Closer to home, some of Darrell’s favorite moments were the simple ones; taking quiet walks on the beach with Debbie and enjoying the beauty of the Gulf Coast.

Darrell is preceded in death by his parents, Charles Theodore Gooden and Cornelia Hassebrock Gooden.

Survivors include his beloved wife, Debbie Gooden; his sister, Debra Axley (John); his nephews, John Charles Axley (Page); Jason Christopher Axley (Amy); and Nicholas Gooden Woosley (Brittany); his grandnieces, Piper Woosley, Eleanor Axley, and Ava Axley; his grandnephews, Jackson Woosley and Grayson Axley; and many extended family members and dear friends.

Darrell will be remembered not only for the homes he built, but for the lives he touched through his dedication, generosity, and steadfast commitment to his family, his community, and the University of West Florida. His legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In accordance with Darrell’s wishes, no formal services will be held. The family is deeply grateful for the love, prayers, and support shown during this time.

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Valerie’s House -https://www.valerieshousenwfl.org