Roddrick Clinton Goodjohn Ii

Rick was born Roddrick Clinton Goodjohn II on born on May 16, 1968 in New Jersey to Joyce Ann Cables-Newton and Roddrick “Rip” Goodjohn. He was the youngest of five. From childhood into adulthood, he was wild, he was free and he was spoiled. Raised between Bristol, PA, Burlington, NJ, and New Haven, CT, Rick’s life was rooted in movement, community, and connection. He attended school in all three cities and left a lasting impact everywhere he went. He was a jack of all trades and took pride in being able to work for himself.

Rick adored his family. In his earlier years, Rick married Terry Garrett, the mother of his two children; Milyra and Pha’Rod. Though they chose to go their separate ways, their love and friendship remained the same for the rest of his life. In his later years, Rick built a blended family with Tamara Murphy, proudly helping raise his bonus children: Jada, James and Antwan.

If there was one thing Rick loved as much as his people, it was music. A true music lover through and through, Rick had an ear for every genre, from old-school classics to soulful ballads to gritty street anthems. He didn’t just listen; he lived it. Fun fact: Rick could sing! In high school, he was part of a gospel music groups. And let’s not forget dancing, if you ever saw Rick on the dance floor, you already know, he moved with joy, rhythm, and freedom. Music was his heartbeat, and dancing was his release. He truly loved to live.

Rick was known for his bold presence, sharp wit, and unforgettable spirit. He was a lover of sports as well.  Many share memories of him at high school sports games, supporting two separate generations: his nephew Dwayne in Burlington and his son Pha’Rod in New Haven. He was known to be very passionate and spirited at some games and kicked out of others. He stayed connected with the youth during his time in Burlington by coaching Pop Warner and summer leagues.  In New Haven, he was also well known and loved by the youth, being a pillar of encouragement and support on and off the court/field.

Rick had a love for motorcycles since the late 80s. He has had multiple sports bikes throughout his life, embodying “wild, fast and free”. But as he matured, he advanced to Harley Davidson bikes, to still chase that rush and freedom but now with calmer and discipline.  He gained a second family when becoming a member of the Free Riders Bike Club, taking on the nickname “Rip”. If not for the toll on his health, he would have still been on that Harley… Vest on, Boots laced, wind in his face, music blasting, laughing at life and living it on his own terms. Because that’s how Rick lived….his way, always. He was a well-known and well-loved figure. You didn’t meet Rick and forget him; he was memorable by nature.

Rick was predeceased by his parents Joyce and Rip, his brother Frank Newton, his bonus son: James Murphy and his three beloved grandmothers who played roles in raising him: Olive Porter, Ethel Long and Emma Cables.

He is survived by his children Milyra and Pha’Rod of Delaware. Bonus kids: Jada of South Carolina and Antwon of Connecticut. One of his proudest roles in life was being “Poppa” to his grandchildren: Kaimeir and Yuri of Delaware, James Jr, Nevaeh, and Ny of Connecticut. He is also survived by his devoted sister, Rhonda Newton, who was more of a mother than sibling. she helped raise him and stood by him until his final breath. His big brothers: Mark “Tony” Goodjohn (Tiwanna) of North Carolina who was a wealth of knowledge and wisdom for rick and who he looked up to. Howie Newton of Georgia who always took pride in making rick felt loved, safe and supported. He also leaves behind his aunt Michelle Goodjoines, who he loved dearly. They will all carry his memory forward. Rick held the loving and fun family member title to a host of others as well… aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and cousins. Rick had friendships that lasted decades, some dating back to childhood. These same friends went on to become a part of Rick’s extended family. Although some were states away, they loved and supported him until his last days.

Rick was a man of faith, raised by generations of spiritual women, a mother and grandmother who were both pastors. He was an active member and recognized Deacon of Kingdom Living Church, where he was loved and celebrated. His relationship with God was lifelong and deeply rooted. Even as his health declined in recent years, Rick stayed optimistic and unafraid. Though he only spent 56 years on earth, Rick can genuinely say that he lived. Most times, his way and by his rules but always with God at his center and being divinely protected by those who went on before him.

Rick fought a long time when it came to his health and although he didn’t always win he still lived and enjoyed his life. Who Rick was reduced to at the end of his life was not who he was and that’s not who he would want to be remembered as. Where he is now, he is free of pain, stress and worry. Let us remember Rick for who he was. Remember him by the memories you shared with him. Remember him by his laughter, his loudness, his style and his wit. Remember him at his best.

A celebration of Roddrick’s life will be held on Friday, May 16, 2025 at 1pm at Colonial Funerals, 86 Circular Avenue, Hamden, CT. Visitation will be from 12:30-1pm at Colonial. Condolences may be expressed at Colonialfunerals.com.