Few lives have shone more brightly in Patrick County than that of the Reverend Joseph William Goode. Affectionately remembered by all as “Uncle Joe,” Rev. Goode’s life was a testament to faith, service, and steadfast devotion to both God and community.
Born on March 7, 1867, to William Goode and Ruth Critz, Joseph Goode came of age in a time of profound challenge and change. By the 1870 census, he was recorded as a small boy of two years old, the only child of his parents.
In December 1892, he married Miss Mary “Mollie” Via, daughter of Simon Via and Judy Thomas of Patrick County. Together they built a Christian home filled with love, faith, and service. The couple was blessed with seven daughters, each of whom carried forward the values their parents instilled.
Called to the ministry at a young age, Rev. Goode became pastor of West Liberty Christian Church in 1896. He would faithfully shepherd that congregation for fifty years, while also preaching at Iron Belt Church. His leadership was instrumental in the building of West Liberty’s church structure in 1911, which also served as a schoolhouse. For many children in the Buffalo Ridge community, Rev. Goode was not only their pastor but also their teacher.
Those who knew Rev. Goode remembered his impressive physical stature—tall, strong, and robust—but even more so they remembered the strength of his character. He was described as charitable, patient, self-denying, and deeply devoted to living out his Christian convictions.
Erma McKenzie, in her History of Sycamore Baptist Church, recalled how beloved he was by all:
“The Buffalo Ridge community was greatly blessed by the life of an outstanding man. He was so much admired and respected that everyone affectionately called him ‘Uncle Joe.’”
His ministry knew no boundaries of race or class. He was especially commended for the funerals he preached, where his words brought comfort to both black and white families alike. His sermons not only consoled the bereaved but also gave all who heard him a deeper meaning for living.
Rev. Goode lived out his faith in daily life as well as in the pulpit. He purchased land near West Liberty Church, and though some doubted he could pay for it, his industry and determination proved otherwise. A skilled gardener and farmer, he provided abundantly for his family through hard work, tending crops, livestock, and orchards.
Mollie Goode, his devoted wife, worked faithfully alongside him. She canned fruits and vegetables, cared for neighbors in times of need, and helped rear their seven daughters in the “admonition and nurture of the Lord.” Together, they created a home that radiated love, service, and Christian witness.
Rev. and Mrs. Goode’s daughters continued the family’s legacy of service in diverse ways:
Ada Georgie Goode (1895–1978) married William Henry Via and raised a large family in the Reed Creek area.
Pearl Lois Goode (1897–1988) married Joe Tory and had one daughter.
Hattie Goode (1901–1984) married Riley Green Pilson, and many of their descendants still live in Woolwine.
Judith Ethel Goode (1904–1942) married Dewey Smith and passed away young, at only 37.
Ella Minnie Goode (1910–1994) married Robert Aiken, lived in Delaware for a time, and later returned to Martinsville.
Ocie Goode (1913–2001) married Millard Pullins, remembered by many as a kind and humble school bus driver.
Bertha Mae Goode (1921–2014) broke new ground as a United States Navy officer during World War II, serving as a Lieutenant Junior Grade before her honorable discharge. Her gravestone, at Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego, California, bears her life’s wisdom: “Life is what we make of it, always see good.”
Rev. Goode’s life spanned more than nine decades, from 1867 to 1958. For 91 years, he faithfully served God, his family, and his community. His presence at Buffalo Ridge and West Liberty was more than pastoral—it was paternal, spiritual, and deeply personal. When illness or hardship struck a neighbor, he was there. When grief visited a family, his words brought solace. When a community needed leadership, his steady hand guided them.
Mrs. McKenzie stated in her book that “when Adron Anglin became ill and dependent, it was Uncle Joe who cared for him. It was as natural for Uncle Joe, the beloved minister, to care for Mr. Anglin as he would for a member of his own family.”
To this day, Rev. Joseph William Goode is remembered as a man of great faith, integrity, and love—a man who “fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.” Truly, his life was well lived, and his legacy continues to bless Patrick County.
If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for a story, you may reach Woody at rockcastlecreek1@gmail.com or 276-692-9626.
