Charles E Goff Jr.

Charles Edward Goff Jr., 77, of Quitman, Texas, passed away on November 7, 2026. He was born in Oak Cliff, Texas, on January 9, 1949, to the late Charles and Dorothy Goff.

Charles and his sister, Linda, experienced profound loss when their parents died in a plane crash while returning from Mardi Gras in 1955. Their maternal aunt, Necia, and uncle, Jim Sawyer, welcomed them into their home. Three years later, Aunt Necia passed away. As a devoted father figure, Jim continued to care for Charles and Linda. When he remarried Billie Hope, she became another treasured family member.

Charles attended South Oak Cliff High ISD for two years before transferring to Kimball High School, where he graduated in 1966. He then studied at East Texas University in Commerce, Texas, for a semester before trying his hand at construction. His uncle Jim, a World War II U.S. Navy veteran, inspired Charles to follow in his footsteps and enlist in the U.S. Navy in October 1967.

During his Navy stint, Charles served with distinction, earning the Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, the Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross. One of his fondest memories was being aboard the USS Hancock when Bob Hope hosted a USO Christmas show featuring Ann-Margret. Charles was discharged honorably in August 1971.

His quick wit, love of laughter, and welcoming heart found their fullest expression in hospitality. Back in the United States, he discovered his life's calling while working in his uncle Jim's restaurant. He enrolled in the culinary program at Dallas College El Centro to further his education. After graduation, he began his career at Neiman Marcus. As a regional food service director, he opened Zodiac restaurants in White Plains, New York; Boston, Massachusetts; on Michigan Avenue in Chicago; and in Oakbrook, Illinois.

After leaving Neiman Marcus, Charles took over Jan's restaurant on Mockingbird Boulevard in Dallas from Jim. He was also one of the original managing partners of the still notable Y.O. Ranch Steakhouse in Dallas' West End. His passion for the industry extended to the Greater Dallas Restaurant Association, where he was an active member and served as president.

Charles loved the busy life of a restaurateur. When he found a rare moment away from work, he enjoyed dove hunting, gardening, tending his pit to create delicious smoked meats, and spending time with his family. He was also an American history buff and avid reader who especially enjoyed novels by the western author Elmer Kelton.

On March 3, 1995, Charles, a sixth-generation Texan, married Denise Rebolini, a first-generation Italian American from the Bronx, New York. His quick wit shone through whenever he recalled their wedding date: he often said, with a twinkle in his eye, "March 2nd is Texas Independence Day. March 3rd is the day I lost my independence."

Charles retired in 2003, and he and Denise made their home in Quitman, Texas.

Before long, his love of welcoming people to the table drew him back to the restaurant business. He opened the Dinner Bell Ranch in Quitman and operated it until his final retirement.

A devoted Catholic, Charles was deeply involved in his East Texas parish at St. Peter the Apostle Church in Mineola. He served as president of the Parish Council and was an active member of the Knights of Columbus.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 31 years, Denise; his sons, Geoff (Andrea) of Murphy, Texas, and Jay (Judi) of Carrollton, Texas; his grandchildren, Logan, Geoffrey, Zoe, Haylee, Christopher, London, Avary, and Josephine; his sister, Linda Brech (Bob); and numerous nephews, nieces, great-nephews, and great-nieces.