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By C.Y. Peters

Robert “Bobby” Lynn Goddard Jr., born to legendary football coach Lynn Goddard and Patsy Goddard, left a lasting legacy on and off the court, track, and classroom. Born with natural athletic ability, an artistic mind, and a kind heart, Bobby’s life journey took him from the mountains of East Tennessee to the horse country of rural Florida, where he made a profound impact on the lives of countless students and athletes. His story is one of creativity, dedication, and the pursuit of passion in many forms.

Bobby graduated from Elizabethton High School in 1967, a star athlete and artist with boundless potential. His skill on the tennis court was evident early on. He lettered all four years at Elizabethton High and served as team captain during his junior and senior years, leading his team with both skill and spirit. In 1966, alongside his doubles partner, Harry Scott, Bobby achieved one of his crowning moments in tennis, winning the Tennessee State Open Playoffs in Knoxville. This victory not only solidified his place among the elite athletes of Tennessee but also earned him a tennis scholarship to East Tennessee State University (ETSU), where he continued to thrive, lettering for two years.

But Bobby’s talents were not confined to the tennis court. He was also a gifted artist, deeply passionate about expressing himself through painting and drawing. After high school, he attended the University of Tennessee, initially majoring in art. However, as he delved deeper into the commercial aspects of the art world, he became disillusioned by its lack of authenticity and its focus on monetary gain over personal expression. This led him to make a pivotal decision—he switched majors and pursued a different path, seeking fulfillment beyond the canvas.

After graduating from the University of Tennessee, Bobby’s life took a significant turn when he was hired by “Spider” Webb, a former Elizabethton resident who was then the principal at Citrus High School in Inverness, Florida. Situated in the rural, peaceful landscape of horse country near Ocala, Florida, Citrus High would become Bobby’s home for the next 25 years. Though he had changed his academic focus, his love for sports never wavered, and he found new opportunities to share his passion for tennis and track.

At Citrus High, Bobby taught science, following in the footsteps of his mother, who had also been a dedicated educator. But his real calling seemed to be on the field and the court, where he coached tennis and girls’ cross-country. Under his leadership, Citrus High’s tennis program flourished. He was named “Coach of the Year” twice, a testament to his talent and leadership. His winning percentage over his 25-year coaching career was an impressive 85%, a remarkable achievement that showcased his commitment to excellence and his ability to bring out the best in his athletes.

Though he had no children of his own, Bobby treated his students and athletes like family. He was a kind, generous, and funny man who had a natural ability to connect with young people. Many of his former students recall his patience, understanding, and unwavering support, both on and off the court. He was a teacher and coach, yes, but also a mentor, role model, and friend to many. He poured his heart and soul into his work, and his students felt it. In addition to his success on the tennis court, Bobby also made a name for himself in track and field. His girls’ cross-country teams were competitive year after year, and he coached one national All-American, a point of pride for the humble coach.

His dedication and expertise earned him a place in “Who’s Who Among American Teachers,” and he was named Citrus High’s “Most Outstanding Teacher” in 1995—a well-deserved recognition of his passion for teaching and his positive impact on students’ lives. Even in his retirement, Bobby’s love for sports and coaching continued. His commitment to coaching girls’ cross-country in Inverness until he retired reflected his dedication to the development of young athletes and his love for the sport. Throughout his life, Bobby remained close to his family, especially cherishing his relationships with his nieces and nephews. He may not have had children of his own, but he played a significant role in shaping the lives of countless young people.

Tragically, Bobby passed away in December 2011, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, athletic excellence, and educational impact. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit lives on in the many lives he touched throughout his career as an artist, teacher, and coach. Bobby Goddard’s life was one of quiet dedication, filled with moments of personal achievement and an enduring commitment to the people he loved and the students he inspired. His legacy as a kind, generous, and talented individual will never be forgotten in the communities he served—both in Elizabethton and Inverness, Florida.