Edwin James "Jim" Gooch, III

Ed (Jim) was born December 7, 1958, in Fayetteville, NC to Edwin J. Gooch, Jr. and Marie Cates Gooch. He lived much of his childhood traveling the world with his Air Force family, living in France, Japan and Okinawa abroad and in North Carolina, Texas, Kansas, New Hampshire, and Florida stateside. During his family’s stay in Okinawa, Ed (Jim) was baptized at Koza Baptist Church. He graduated from Choctawhatchee High School in Florida and completed part of his undergraduate degree at the University of Florida. After serving two years in the army, Ed (Jim) moved to North Carolina where he completed his undergraduate degree and law degree at North Carolina Central University and went on to practice law. He also met and married his wife, Estelle. Over the years, Jim remained close to his family and had dear friends, as well.

Ed (Jim) is survived by his loving wife, Estelle Lorbacher Gooch, his beloved parents, Edwin J. Gooch, Jr. and Marie Cates Gooch of Durham; his older sister, Debra Barnes of Durham; his younger brother, David Gooch of Bonaire, Georgia; his brother-in-law, Douglas Lorbacher of Durham; and his brother-in-law, Pressley Lorbacher of Durham. He is also survived by his niece, Katey (Levi Stecker) Barnes of Mebane; his niece, Ashley Lorbacher of Durham; his nephew, David Barnes of Mebane, and his nephew, Jack Lorbacher of Durham. He is also survived by his grandniece, Lucy Stecker; and his grandnephew, Brady Stecker.

Over the years, Ed (Jim) led with his heart and advocated passionately for his clients, family and friends. He loved children and he loved animals. Family memories include how they came to own their first dog after Jim brought him home as a puppy. As a young man, he was devoted to his german shepherd, Star. In later years, he surely loved his wife’s cats, also. As an older adult, Jim loved going to Myrtle Beach, playing pool with good friends, and reading. He enjoyed helping out his family and spending time with his beloved parents.

The family will have a Memorial Service at Hudson Funeral Home, 211 S. Miami Blvd., Durham, NC 27703 at 3:00 P.M. on Sunday, April 2, 2023. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 2:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M.

Flowers are welcome. Or please feel free to make a donation to a charity of your choice in the name of Ed (Jim).