Willie Lavone Goude

Lavone Goude, a cherished member of his family and community, departed this life on August 17, 2025, in Columbus, GA. Born on January 27, 1945, in Dothan, AL, Lavone lived a life marked by love, generosity, and dedication to those he loved and cherished the most.

After a successful career that spanned over 40 years, Lavone retired from AT&T, where he was known not only for his work ethic but as a good friend to many. Throughout this career is where he created some of the most memorable and life long friendships. These friendships were priceless to Lavone. He exemplified a nurturing spirit, shaped significantly by the two remarkable women who raised him: his mother, Essie Lois Goude, and his Aunt Ada Mae Wilkes. Their influence instilled in Lavone the values of compassion & respect and giving that defined his interactions throughout his life.

Lavone’s warmth extended beyond his professional life; he had a profound love for his family. Every moment spent with them was a treasured opportunity, and he relished family gatherings, particularly during football season, when Saturday afternoons were devoted to grilling and Georgia football. Sundays were reserved for steak dinners with family and the golf course with his close friends, known as the BHB’s.

In addition to his love for sports, Lavone loved to spend time with his daughter, Misty Langley, and son-in-law, Tommy Langley. He wholeheartedly engaged in the lives of his grandchildren, Avery and Clay, as well as his great-granddaughter, Lennox, actively participating and attending every game, match, ceremony, and event. He loved his people hard, and his family will carry his legacy of love and support, forever cherishing the memories and traditions created together.

Lavone is survived by his daughter, Misty Langley, and son-in-law, Tommy Langley, along with his granddaughter, Avery Langley, his grandson, Clay Langley, and his great-granddaughter, Lennox Langley. He is also remembered by his nephews and nieces, Terry Chambers, Chuck Ridgeway, Donna Ridgeway and Susan Lovelace, who will miss his loving presence.

He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Essie Lois Goude; his aunt, Ada Mae Wilkes; his sister, Mary Nell Ridgeway; his brother-in-law, Bill Ridgeway; and his brother, Jerume Seay, along with his sister-in-law, Florence Seay.

Lavone Goude will be remembered not just for the years he spent with us but for the love he shared, the lives he touched, and the legacy he leaves behind in the hearts of his family and friends. He was a loving son, brother, father, uncle, but his most important role was known as G-Daddy. He passed away surrounded by those he loved the most, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.