Riley Good

Riley Good, 95, of Tazewell TN, went to be with the Lord, on December 23, 2021, peacefully in his home.
Born December 20, 1926, to George  and P.L. Good, Riley was drafted at the young age of 19, and served his country overseas in Japan during World War Il, as a T5 army mechanic and a highly praised and decorated rifleman.
War behind him, Riley held many trades as a civilian, all of which, he succeeded at. He worked in Detroit, helping to manufacture cars; he and one other man surveyed the land that is now known as the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park; but the job he would often be found pulling a picture out and beaming with pride about was operator of a double bladed side by side bulldozer for Mountain Drive Mining Company. Many took their turns, but he always ended back up in the driver’s seat; the only man brave enough and capable enough to run that monster machine up and down those dirt piles and hills.
Riley was also very proud to have been an active, faithful member of Greer's Chapel Baptist Church, where he directed the choir for many years. He loved singing with the choir, as well as serving in many other capacities, such as alongside his wife, Maude, who was director of  VBS. In the last days of his life, Amazing Grace was sung to him and his love of music and Jesus was still evident, as he raised his hand toward heaven. Riley enjoyed life and family and friends, and was always ready with a quip or a joke, making them smile.
A man of the land, he could be found working with his hands on the farm, raising livestock, growing a large garden, making molasses, just to name a few. He took great joy in sharing his harvest with others and teaching others these skills.
Most of all, Riley was a loving, caring husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. That love was returned, not only by family, but by so many in the community and abroad!
Riley was preceded in death by his soulmate and wife of 68 years, Maude B. Good; his homecoming is rejoiced in soul but his earthly presence will be greatly missed by his daughter, Tywanna Smith; two grandchildren, Desiree’ Doyle (Aaron) and Shea Smith (Rachel); and three great-grandchildren, Dallas Doyle, Mallie Doyle, and Micah Smith.

The family will receive friends Monday, December 27, 2021 from 5PM until 7PM with funeral services to follow at 7PM in the Arnett & Steele Valley Chapel with Rev. Chad Burchette officiating. Obituary will be read by Lee Billingsley and music will be provided by Desiree Doyle and Beverly Nelson.

Graveside services will be conducted 12:00 PM Tuesday, December 28, 2021 in the Good Family Cemetery with full military honors conducted by Tri-County Veterans Honor Guard.

The Arnett & Steele Valley Chapel is honored to be serving the Good Family.

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