Family Obituary posted by Brown Funeral Home

James Thomas “Jim” Goforth, 60, who founded and pastored New Life Community Church, Inwood, West Virginia, for 28 years, went home to be with Jesus on April 12, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to his family and community. After a long journey with neuroendocrine cancer, Jim’s passing came suddenly and far sooner than those who loved him were prepared for.

James “Jim” Goforth pastored New Life Community Church for nearly three decades. (Photo via Brown Funeral Home)

Born on June 20, 1965, Jim lived a life rooted in purpose and shaped by his deep, personal relationship with Jesus Christ, his Savior. He was a devoted husband, a proud and loving father, a playful and adoring Pawpaw, a caring son, a loyal brother, and a cherished friend to many. To know Jim was to know warmth, humor, kindness, and a joyful spirit that made others feel immediately at home.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Lori of Martinsburg, WV; his beloved sons, Joshua of Charleston, WV, and Nicholas of Martinsburg, WV. Joshua and his wife, Brittany Lawrence Goforth, gave Jim one of his greatest joys in life: being “Pawpaw” to their four beautiful children, Greyson Lee, Caiden James, Landon Reed, and Emmeline Margaret. Those grandchildren brought him endless smiles and immeasurable joy. He is also survived by his father, Harold of Bluefield, WV; his brother, Harold “Lucky” and sister in-law Debbie of Bluefield, WV; and his sister, Anita Goforth Payne of Austin, TX. Additionally, Jim had several nieces and nephews including: Meredith Goforth of Westport, CT, Paige Sanders of Bluefield, WV, Rachel Taylor of Huntersville, NC, Lexy Payne of Austin, TX and Tyler Payne of Austin, TX.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Jo, his daughter, Tiffany Lynn, and his nephew Nathan Samuel.

For 28 years, Jim faithfully served as the founding pastor of New Life Community Church in Inwood, WV. He answered God’s call on his life with boldness, humility, and steadfast faith. What began as a small gathering in his home grew, through his vision, prayer, and dedication, into a thriving church family and a permanent place of worship. Jim did not simply build a church; he helped build a community rooted in love, faith, and connection. Jim’s smile could light up a room, and his laughter was contagious. He had a remarkable gift for making people feel seen, welcomed, and loved. He loved to tease, to joke, and to bring joy into everyday moments. Above all, Jim was passionate about sharing the message that had transformed his life: the love and saving grace of Jesus Christ. He called this mission REACH, TEACH and SEND!

His life was a testimony not only in the words he preached, but in the way he lived—with kindness, generosity, compassion, and a genuine love for people. Jim’s influence will continue to be felt in the lives of those he encouraged, the people he loved, and all who came to know Christ through his ministry.

Though he will be deeply missed, his family and friends find comfort in knowing that Jim is now at peace, reunited with loved ones who have gone before him, and hearing the words of his Savior: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at New Life Community Church, 4102 Tabler Station Road, Inwood, WV, on Saturday, April 18, at 4:00 p.m. If you are unable to join us online, consider participating in this service on New Life’s YouTube Channel: @NewLifeCommunityChurchWV.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the New Life Community Church Playground Fund to help fulfill Jim’s vision to build a new awesome playground where children can make memories, laugh together, and enjoy a safe place to play for years to come.