Thomas "Tyler" Pierce Goodson, Jr.

Thomas "Tyler" Pierce Goodson, Jr., 34, of Fayetteville, Georgia, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, January 2, 2025.

Tyler was born on March 2, 1990, in Florence, South Carolina, to Thomas "Tom" Pierce Goodson, Sr., and Sandra Bailey Goodson. He grew up in Darlington, South Carolina, where he cultivated true friendships, passions, and cherished memories.

At an early age, Tyler fell in love with racing while attending local tracks where his family competed. This childhood pastime grew into an everlasting devotion to NASCAR. Raised a Dale Earnhardt, Sr. fan, Tyler later became an ardent supporter of Kevin Harvick and could often be found tuning in to races or traveling to events when possible. Tyler's early years also ignited his love for Clemson football. Attending games with dear friends inspired his dream of becoming a Clemson Tiger — a dream he fulfilled with determination and pride.

A graduate of The Byrnes Schools, Class of 2008, Tyler excelled both academically and athletically. He was a member of the golf and baseball teams, National Honor Society, Model United Nations, president of Key Club, and was honored to serve as a representative of Palmetto Boys State. Through these experiences, Tyler built a network of lifelong friendships and displayed a deep commitment to leadership and service.

Tyler's childhood dream of attending Clemson came true, and in 2012, he graduated from Clemson University with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. While there, he immersed himself in everything Clemson, joining the Kappa Alpha Order fraternity and spending countless Saturdays in Death Valley. He cheered on his Tigers with enthusiasm and could often be heard shouting, "Roll Tajh!"

After college, Tyler began his career with Seamon Whiteside in Charleston, South Carolina, where he grew professionally and socially. The friendships he formed there would last a lifetime and ultimately grow to feel like family. During this time, Tyler met the love of his life, Ashley Buffington. Their love story led them across the southeast, ultimately calling Fayetteville, Georgia home. Tyler worked as a Project Manager in Design and Construction with Trilogy Investment Company, where he brought dedication, creativity, and a collaborative spirit to his team.

Tyler and Ashley married on October 22, 2022, in Bremen, Georgia, in a beautiful ceremony surrounded by family and friends. Beneath fall foliage and in a rustic barn decorated to the nines by Ashley, the couple spent the night on the dance floor, celebrating their love for each other and the beginning of this beautiful new chapter. Tyler's deep love for Ashley was evident in everything he did, and together, they created a life filled with joy, laughter, adventure, and unwavering support. Whether traveling, enjoying quiet evenings at home with their dogs, Hazel and Boudreaux, or simply sharing a laugh, Tyler and Ashley were happiest when they were together — a true testament to their enduring love and friendship.

In his free time, Tyler enjoyed working on his golf game, attending concerts, and curating the perfect playlist for every occasion. Whether playing 18 holes or singing karaoke, his passion for music and fun shone brightly. He treasured time with family and friends and made a point to visit them as regularly as possible, often driving hundreds of miles to spend a few cherished days together. When these trips brought him home to Darlington, as they frequently did, Tyler never passed up an opportunity to grab a cheeseburger from the Dairy Bar — a fond family tradition from his childhood.

Tyler will be remembered for his infectious smile, kind heart, and unwavering positivity. He brought joy to those around him, prioritized family and friendships, and embraced life with an adventurous and compassionate spirit. He was a devoted husband, brother, son, and friend and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Tyler is survived by his loving wife, Ashley B. Goodson of Fayetteville, GA; parents, Sandra B. Goodson of Florence, SC and Tom Goodson (Michael McGuirt) of Camden, SC; maternal grandparents, Ray and Ruby Bailey of Darlington, SC; brother, Barrett B. Goodson (Morgan) of Florence, SC; sister, Bailey E. Goodson (William Jones) of Kailua, HI; sister, Alexandria "Alex" P. Goodson of Charlotte, NC; in-laws, Debra C. Blinkhorn (Robert) of Camden, SC, and Codie Buffington (Sherri VanAuken) of Brooksville, FL; aunt, Karen Jordan (Mike); aunt, Joan Hendrix (Jeff); uncle, Robert E. "Eddie" Goodson, III (Carolyn); uncle, Ronald "Ronnie" A. Goodson, Sr. (Janet); cousins, Dorene G. Bouska (Patrick), Robert E. "Bobby" Goodson, IV (Tracy), Ronald "Ron" A. Goodson, Jr. (Whitney), Jordan Pond (Ben), Patrick Jordan, Madison Hendrix, Riley Hendrix — all of Darlington, SC.

Tyler was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Doris J. Goodson, and paternal grandfather, Robert E. Goodson, Jr.

The family will receive guests at Belk Funeral Home in Darlington, SC, on Thursday, January 9, 2025, from 6 to 8 PM. A memorial service to celebrate Tyler's life will be held on Friday, January 10, 2025, at 11 AM at First Baptist Church of Darlington, with interment to follow at Grove Hill Cemetery.