LeRoy Goforth June 2, 1920 - November 12, 2009

BG (Ret.) Leroy F. Goforth “Lee” Beloved Husband and Father Cherished Grandfather Lee went home to be with the our Lord November 12, 2009 in Corona. He was born June 2, 1920 in Wellington Texas to Frank & Verna Goforth, the oldest of 3 boys. Along with his parents & 2 brothers, the family moved to Maywood California in 1927 where he attended Bell High School, graduating in 1938.

His classmates also knew him as “Tex”. He met the love of his life, Eileen Le Gros, at Pacific Clay in Los Angeles where they were both employed. The couple married November 24, 1941 and would have celebrated their 68th anniversary this month. They moved to Whittier in 1949 where they raised their 3 children. The couple also live in Hacienda Heights and Fallbrook, settling in Corona, his wife’s hometown, in 2000.

Lee joined the California Army National Guard as a reservist in 1938. he served active duty in both WWII and Korea. He continued his part-time military career until 1974 and retired as a Brigadier General. His primary occupation was a 25 year career with the Los Angeles Police Dept., during which time he had the honor of performing security for Ronald Reagan, both as Governor and President, Robert Kennedy, and even celebrities like Laurence Welk.

He retired from the LAPD in 1973. After retiring from both the LAPD and the Military, Lee filled his time with part-time real estate and golfing, which he loved. He put on several successful golf tournaments also. He considered everyone he met his “Good Friend” and was loved by all who knew him. He was always there to help out when anyone needed it.

Lee is survived by his loving wife Eileen in Corona. Daughter Diana Thomas in San Clemente, Son Gary & Shirley in Wildomar, and Daughter Sharon & Bob Duarte in Corona. The couple was also blessed with 6 grandchildren, Shelley Hicks & Patrick (Besty) Thomas, Cheryl (Brian) Hepinger & Brian Goforth, Ryan Duarte & Robyn (Adam) Wright and 9 great-grandchildren, Christian, Brady & Max Hicks, Katelyn & Kylee Hepinger, Hailey & Connor Thomas, Evan & Emma Wright.

He is also survived by his youngest brother Bob of Willis Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents and younger brother Denzil, son-in-law Jerry Thomas and great-granddaughter Lily Thomas.

“We miss you so much already and are so proud of the life you lived, the love you gave and all the things you taught us.” Always in our hearts………………………Till we meet again.

Visitations will be at 4:00PM to 8:00PM on Wednesday, November 18, 2009 at Thomas Miller Mortuary. He will be laid to rest at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, CA 92518. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Thomas Miller Mortuary.

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Sunday, November 15, 2009

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