Obituary of Father Alva Joe Goss

Father Alva Joe Goss, 69 of Umatilla, Fl. passed away Friday, November 25, 2011 at Haven Hospice in Gainesville, Fl. Father Goss was the son of Alva and Dorothy (Greene) Goss (who died during childbirth) and Mattie (Mathis) Goss of McAlpin, FL. Upon completion from high school Joe served 4 years in the Air Force, 3 of which he was stationed in Germany. He later became a building contractor. During his years as a contractor he was a Deacon for 10 years at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Eustis, Fl. At age 49 he enrolled and graduated from Trinity Seminary in 1992. He started his career as a Vicar and began a small mission church in the firehouse on State Rd 200. Today that church is known as The Episcopal Church of the Advent in Ocala. Father Joe's enjoyment in life was his wife, children, and grandchildren. Father Joe is survived by his loving wife of 46 years Marlise Goss of Umatilla, Fl.; his sons Joseph Damon Goss of Chiefland, Fl.; and Jason Derek Goss and wife Kelli of Alachua, Fl.; his grandchildren Caitlin, Connor, Thomas, and Ryan. Memorial Service for Father Joe will be Saturday, December 3, 2011 at 10:00 AM at The Episcopal Church of the Advent 11251 S.W. Hwy 484 in Ocala, Fl. with Bishop John Howe officiating. Memorials may be made to the charity or church of your choice. Arrangements by Hiers-Baxley TimberRidge Chapel. Condolences may be posted at hiers-baxley.com