In Loving Memory of Joey Goodwin, 17, of Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minneapolis, MN — With heavy hearts, the family, friends, and wider community mourn the tragic and untimely passing of Joey Goodwin, a vibrant and beloved 17-year-old whose life ended far too soon. A beacon of energy, warmth, and kindness, Joey’s loss has left an aching void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
A Life Full of Promise
Joey was known by many as a bright light—full of potential, joy, and compassion. A student at South High School, he was admired not only for his academic dedication, but for the kindness he showed to peers, teachers, and neighbors alike. Whether he was helping a friend through a tough time or making people laugh with his infectious sense of humor, Joey brought people together in the most genuine way.
He had a love for music, basketball, and family. His afternoons were often spent shooting hoops at the neighborhood park, earbuds in, and a backpack always slung over one shoulder. Those closest to him remember the small things: how he greeted everyone with a nod and a smile, how he made others feel seen and heard, and how he never left a room without telling his mom he loved her.
A Devastating Loss
The details surrounding Joey’s passing are still unfolding, and the community continues to seek answers. In the meantime, what remains undeniably clear is the deep and lasting impact his life had on those around him. Vigils have already begun forming—candles, flowers, and handwritten notes now rest beneath a growing memorial near the intersection of East Lake Street and Hiawatha Avenue, not far from where Joey spent much of his time.
The pain of his absence is being felt across Minneapolis, from classrooms to community centers to his own family’s home. Friends have shared countless stories of his loyalty, honesty, and open-hearted nature, describing him as “the kind of person who made life feel a little less heavy.”
Remembering Joey’s Spirit
Joey’s legacy is one of compassion, courage, and community. He was the kind of person who lifted others up, even when he was struggling himself. He had dreams of becoming a youth mentor—he wanted to be the support for others that he so often gave without question.
As his teachers and coaches remember, “Joey always showed up—whether it was for class, practice, or a friend in need. His presence was constant, dependable, and kind.” His loss has left a silence in places once filled with his laughter and light.
Supporting the Goodwin Family
In the wake of this heartbreaking tragedy, a GoFundMe has been organized to support Joey’s family with funeral expenses and to help create a memorial fund in his name, which will go toward youth programs in the Minneapolis area—causes Joey cared deeply about.
Community members have rallied around the Goodwin family, offering meals, donations, and presence. The outpouring of love reflects just how widely Joey’s light had spread during his short but powerful life.
A Community in Mourning
A public Celebration of Life for Joey will be held at Powderhorn Park on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 4:00 PM, where loved ones will gather to share stories, music, and prayer in his memory. Attendees are encouraged to wear green and black, Joey’s favorite colors, and to bring photos or messages to be added to a community memory board.
As Minneapolis grieves, it also remembers. Joey Goodwin was not just another young face lost too soon—he was a brother, a son, a friend, and a light. His memory will live on in every act of kindness, in every beat of the music he loved, and in every young person striving to make a better world, just like he hoped to do.
Rest in power, Joey. You were loved beyond measure, and you will never be forgotten.