Steven Goforth (Bolivar)'s Obituary
Steve Goforth, 81, passed away on April 3, 2026. Born August 26, 1944, in Pryor, OK, to J.P. and Wilma Goforth, Steve was a dedicated family man, educator, and coach who influenced many. In 1965, Steve's life changed when he met Sandra Covey at Northeastern State University. On May 28, 1966, they married and began their educational journey at Drexel, MO. Steve continued teaching math and coaching in several Missouri schools, including Archie, Ray-Pec, and Harrisonville. While he served as a principal for a time, his true love for teaching brought him back to the classroom. Steve was known for his passion and commitment as a coach. For over thirty years, he coached girls' and boys' basketball, softball, tennis, and as an assistant football coach in Missouri high schools. He especially loved championing girls' athletics, achieving exceptional success in girls' basketball. Notable highlights included taking Archie's AAU team to Nationals in New Orleans and leading Harrisonville to State Tournament regionals in 1982. Off the court and outside the classroom, Steve found his greatest joys as a devoted husband, father, and beloved 'Papa'. Family meant everything to him. He is survived by his wife, Sandra; his children, Stephanie (Suzanne) and Scott (Kelly); and his cherished granddaughters, Teagan and Tayt. In retirement, Steve enjoyed the simple peace of his stocked fishing pond, traveling the country in an RV with Sandra and the companionship of his furry friends, especially the family dog, Sam. Steve will be remembered as a true friend and a man who measured success not just in points on a scoreboard, but in the lives he shaped and the people he loved. His family invites you to please share a special memory or story of his life. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. The family suggests donations in support of the Liver Transplant Program at The University of Kansas Health System. Donations can be made payable to The University of Kansas Health System and mailed to Fund Development, 11300 Corporate Avenue, Mailstop 9241, Lenexa, KS 66219-1374 or by visiting https://given.kansashealthsystem.com.
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