Joel Goss

Joel Goss Obituary
Joel F. Goss died peacefully in his sleep on March 23, 2021 from heart failure. He was at the home of good friends and adopted family Branis and Aleksey Buslovich when he passed, with his canine sidekick Benjy by his side.
He is survived by sisters Suzanne Goss and M’Lou Gillespie, and brother Richard Goss. A wonderful and devoted father, he is now united with his beloved son, Keaton Guthrie-Goss, who preceded him in death in 2018.
Born in Pawnee Oklahoma, November 15, 1955, he was raised in Chattanooga, TN, and moved to New York City in his early twenties. In 1992, he married his beloved ex-wife, Cat Guthrie. They met when he helped to write and she performed in “Spectacular Days of Radio”, a successful long running Atlantic City production.
In 1993 they moved to Garrison, NY to raise Keaton. 25 years later Joel moved to Beacon, where he became a well known local character, some even called him “the mayor of Beacon”.
Among Joel’s many accomplishments, he managed The Original Improv in the 70’s and worked with a number of notable comedians. He received 3 Emmys and a Peabody as a writer on the BBC documentary, “Buster Keaton: A Hard Act to Follow”. He wrote for Dark Horse Comics and his “The Shadow” series has become a collectible. Locally, Joel directed several shows at the Depot Theater in Garrison, and gave freely and generously of his time to many local school productions.
Joel was an original, living a colorful and varied life. Joel stood out. He dressed like he walked off a movie set. He pursued his own path, and often took the road less travelled. Joel was widely read and liked nothing better than a well turned phrase, witty repartee, and obscure references.
Joel deeply cared for those he loved. He saw the potential in everyone, but especially in those who couldn’t see it in themselves. He always had time for the kind word, or the sympathetic ear, as he took people under his wing and encouraged them.
“He was a good friend and the sweetest of souls and he will be greatly missed.”
Keep smilin’, Joel.
A Celebration of Joel’s life will be held at The Garrison in May. Because of Covid restrictions, please contact catguthrie@gmail.com for date, time, and more information.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the non profit organization founded in Joel’s son’s name at KeatonsKids.org