James P. Goff

James Patrick Goff was born in Ferndale, California on March 12, 1938 and left this earth to be with our Heavenly Father on May 8, 2021. He always tried to give the love of his life, Peggy, something special on Mother’s Day. This year he gave her himself and they are dancing together in Heaven.

Jim met his wife of 59 years, Peggy Baily, at Humboldt State University where he majored in the card game of Hearts and minored in drinking. Really, he majored in Elementary Education and completed his degree at Boise Junior College. (He didn’t know then how many lives he would touch in the thirty-three years he spent in education.) Jim and Peggy met in September of 1961 and were married the following February. They made their life together in Horseshoe Bend for 20 years, bringing their kids up in the faith of the First Southern Baptist Church. Jim taught multiple grade levels and coached all sports. He was instrumental in getting the gymnasium in Horseshoe Bend built so the students could have access to upgraded equipment. Jim Goff and Jim Jones confiscated the coach’s room, and it was lovingly referred to as “The Nest.” After those 20 years, Jim was called to New Meadows where he taught 5th and 6th grades and coached volleyball and girls’ basketball. He spent endless hours coaching and supporting all the kids in their dreams. Jim ensured everyone at the sporting events were well fed by keeping the concession stand in stock. When something needed done, the words “You Bet” always meant that Jim was on the job! There were lifelong friendships built in New Meadows. The couple moved to Emmett in 1990 where Jim continued teaching and was the middle school Athletic Director. Jim retired in 1996 and continued his passion of running concessions at many events in the state. Jim and Peggy were notorious for making their Christmas salami and cheese for members of the communities in which they lived. 

Dad dedicated much of his lifetime to his community and family alike. He spent countless hours with weekend secessions of open gym for the kids and parents of the town.  He even coached the women’s Blue vs Red volleyball teams in Horseshoe Bend, along with giving back to the community thru the years with helping with the Logger’s Day Committee, Jaycees, and being the co-director of the Outdoor School program with him side kick Mrs. Deb Bitten.  He covered a lot of territory in the Brownlee basin hunting with his life-long friends, Bob Wolsleben and Larry Gardner.  Of course, his favorite recent times were spent having coffee with the liars at the “Liar’s Table”, and the sarcastic bantering between he and his good friend, Shawn Surgeon. 

Jim is survived by his sister Victoria of Nevada, his brother-in-law Pat Bailey of Oregon, sister-in-law, Shirley Palazzo of California, his oldest son, Christian Goff (Helen), second son, Patrick Goff (Kristin), and daughter, Doni Jo Davis, (Carl). He was so proud of each of his 13 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren…and, yes, still one on the way.

Memorials and donations can be made to Heart and Home Hospice in Emmett, ID or Mustang Athletics in Horseshoe Bend. Graveside services will take place at the Pioneer Cemetery on Sunday, May 23 at 2:00 PM with a luncheon to follow at the Ladies’ Club Hall in Horseshoe Bend.  Services in the care of the Potter Funeral Chapel Emmett.

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