Minneapolis Mourns the Tragic Loss of 17-Year-Old Joey Goodwin, Remembered for His Bright Spirit and Boundless Kindness
Minneapolis, MN — April 30, 2025
The Minneapolis community is grieving the heartbreaking and untimely passing of Joey Goodwin, a vibrant 17-year-old whose life was tragically cut short, leaving family, friends, classmates, and neighbors in deep mourning. Joey, who was known for his infectious laughter, generous heart, and unwavering optimism, passed away under circumstances that have yet to be publicly disclosed, sparking an overwhelming outpouring of love and remembrance.
According to a tribute posted on the memorial page In Loving Memory of Joey Goodwin, Joey’s life was marked by a rare combination of exuberance and empathy. Whether it was lifting a friend’s spirits, volunteering his time for community events, or simply offering a warm smile to someone in need, Joey’s impact was far-reaching and heartfelt.
A Life That Lit Up Every Room
Joey was a junior at South High School, where he was deeply involved in both academics and extracurriculars. Teachers recall him as a curious and engaged student who never hesitated to participate in class or help peers who were struggling. He was a passionate participant in the school’s theater program, often taking the stage in school productions that drew cheers from audiences and admiration from his fellow performers.
“Joey wasn’t just a student — he was a leader, a friend, and a light in our school community,” said Ms. Renee Douglas, his drama teacher. “He had a magnetic presence. People gravitated toward him because he made everyone feel important.”
Outside of school, Joey was an avid music lover, skateboarder, and aspiring filmmaker. He often created short films with friends and hoped to one day study cinematography in college. “He was always dreaming, always creating,” said his best friend Marcus Ellison. “He wanted to tell stories that mattered.”
Family and Community in Mourning
Joey’s family, devastated by the sudden loss, released a heartfelt statement:
“Our Joey was everything a parent could hope for — compassionate, creative, and full of life. The world feels dimmer without him, but we are grateful for the love and memories he gave us. We thank everyone for their support and ask for privacy as we grieve.”
Friends and community members have begun placing flowers, candles, and handwritten notes near the entrance of South High School and at a growing memorial near Powderhorn Park, a place Joey often visited to write, film, and hang out with friends.
In addition, a community vigil is being planned for this Friday at 7:00 p.m. at the park, where those who loved Joey will gather to honor his memory through music, stories, and shared remembrance.
Tributes Pour In
Social media has been flooded with messages of condolence and tributes celebrating Joey’s legacy. The hashtag #RememberingJoey has trended locally, filled with photos, videos, and memories from classmates, friends, and even strangers moved by the story of a life ended too soon.
“Joey was the kind of person who made you believe in goodness again,” wrote one classmate. “He didn’t just talk about being kind — he lived it every day.”
A Legacy of Love
Though his time was short, Joey Goodwin leaves behind a powerful legacy — one of kindness, creativity, and the deep connections he formed with others. In his honor, his family has announced the creation of the Joey Goodwin Memorial Scholarship Fund, which will support aspiring young artists and filmmakers in the Minneapolis area. Details about the fund and how to contribute will be shared in the coming days.
“We want Joey’s light to keep shining,” said his mother, Angela Goodwin. “If we can help other young people chase their dreams, then his spirit will live on in them.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with grief or mental health challenges, local support services are available. Please reach out to Minneapolis Crisis Resources at 612-379-6363 or visit mentalhealthmn.org.
For updates on the memorial service, scholarship fund, or to share memories of Joey, visit the official remembrance page here.