Gary "Rabbit" Goolsby

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL - Gary "Rabbit" Goolsby, a lifelong resident of Putnam County, transitioned from his earthly life on Thursday August 13, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, faithfulness, devotion, hard work, and community spirit.

Born September 30, 1957 and raised in the Algood and Cookeville areas, Gary was affectionately known to his family and close friends by his nickname, "Rabbit." He lived his entire life in the community he so dearly loved.

Rabbit was the proud son of the late Hershel and Mildred “Christine” Goolsby. He was also the cherished grandson of the late Bryson and Mary Frances Myers.

A man of profound loyalty and reliable presence, Rabbit was fiercely dedicated to his family. He spent many years personally caring for his parents and grandmother during their twilight years.

Rabbit is survived by his children, Licole Goolsby and James Allen; beloved brothers John Goolsby and Benny (Marissa) Myers and their 3 sons; adored nephew Patrick Goolsby, and deeply revered uncle and aunts; Jerry (Janice) Myers, Peggy Barrociere, and Sue (Marvin) Beidleman and a large host of other precious close knit family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his dear sister, Alfreda Hall, his parents, two uncles and four aunts whom he treasured abundantly.

Rabbit also cherished his close relationships with a host of lifelong friends who knew him as an unwavering pillar of support.

Rabbit was a dedicated professional who committed 38 years of service to Cookeville Regional Hospital. He began his career there on February 20, 1978, and worked faithfully until his retirement in 2016.

In addition to his hospital career, Rabbit worked for many years at the Citgo station on Washington Avenue. There, his colleagues quickly became family. This role also allowed him to indulge in one of his favorite lifelong hobbies: tinkering on cars while also working alongside Wally, one of his dearest and closest friends.

On any given day in his spare time, Rabbit, an avid sports fan, could be found loudly cheering on his TN Vols and Las Vegas Raiders while also ensuring he never missed any NASCAR events. He was a permanent fixture at Racquet Master for many, many years while enjoying his daily work out sessions.

A man of deep faith, Rabbit loved attending church and actively serving his congregation. For many decades, he attended Burton’s Chapel and Wright’s Chapel—the historic church homes of his grandmother. In recent years, he formally called Trinity Missionary Baptist and congregation his church home, always stepping up to help his church family in any capacity needed.

Funeral services for Gary Lewis Goolsby will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday August 22, 2026 at the Cookeville Chapel of Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home (59 N Jefferson Ave). Interment will follow in the Algood Heritage Cemetery. Visitation for friends and family will be Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m..

Rabbit will be remembered by everyone blessed to know him for his warm greetings, his big radiant, welcoming smile, and his immediate readiness to offer a helping hand. To sum up his character, those who knew him best frequently use the words: vibrant, loyal, caring, supportive, kind, dedicated, hardworking, determined, friendly, genuine, headstrong, and trustworthy when describing him.

While we are utterly devastated with the sudden loss of Rabbit, we remain comforted in knowing that he gained his two wings and is rejoicing in his Heavenly home.

Hooper Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share your thoughts and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.