BENTON — It is with sad hearts that we share with you the passing of our loving and caring Dad, Leon H. Goff (aka Chief Buckshot),

86, of Benton. Leon was born August 3, 1937 in Ft. Smith, Ark., and peacefully passed away December 14, 2023 in Benton, Ark.

Leon was an abundantly loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Leon met the love of his life on a blind date in high school. It wasn’t a romantic date as my mom said, but it was special. After all, they stayed together for 65 years.

After our mom and dad got married he decided to join the army where he spent the next 40 years proudly serving his country. The family spent many years traveling from base to base, making new friends and experiencing many new opportunities. His military service sent him to Vietnam on two separate occasions, leaving his four kids to the care of his loving wife. What a tag team they made!

After Leon retired from the military his family settled in Benton, Ark., where we started the next chapter of our lives. He decided to finish up his pilot ratings and later became the local airport manager where he taught many students to fly. His love of flying and teaching made him an excellent instructor, mentor and inspiration to many future pilots.

When he turned 62 the kids got a phone call from our parents saying “come get what you want, we’re selling the house and hitting the road.” He and my mom spent the next 20 plus years RVing around this country making special friends and special memories… doing what he always enjoyed, serving others.

Leons’ most important life decision was his acceptance of Jesus as his personal savior. His spiritual commitment to God and love for his family were his strongest traits. He spent several years serving the church in many capacities… but his favorite was the building committee.

Leon is preceded in death by his wife Dorothy L. Goff. Pawpaw (as his grands called him) leaves to cherish the wonderful memories his Four children Bill Goff and wife Marty, Jeff Goff and wife Dana, Tracy Goff and wife Carrie, Teresa Goff Middlebrooks and husband Allen. 11 grandkids and 11 great-grandkids.

On behalf of the family we want to extend our deepest appreciation to the staff at The Manor for the care and love they bestowed upon our dad. The comfort, love, and care they shared brightened his life every day, and we are truly grateful.

Visitation will be held at Ashby’s Funeral Home, Benton, Ark., Thursday 21, 2023, 5 - 7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Centerpoint Church in Benton and NLC in Hot Springs. On-line guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com.