‘Lost an incredible man.’ Patients, colleagues mourn the death of beloved Columbus doctor

The Columbus community is mourning and remembering the life of Dr. Malcolm Goodchild, who died in a car crash over the weekend.

An outpouring of condolences, prayers, and memories have been posted to Facebook from patients and colleagues of Goodchild, who several years ago survived a serious crash that left him with severe injuries.

Goodchild died Saturday evening in a crash on I-85 at Exit 62 in Opelika, according to Lee County officials. Investigators said they believe his vehicle was hit by another driver going the wrong direction.

A post made by Taylor Alexander said Goodchild, “was the light,” and that Goodchild was always singing and telling jokes.

“He made his famous Rasta Pasta for my baby shower they put together for me at work,” her post said.

Another post by Logan McMahill said Goodchild was the “funniest person,” and was always laughing and joking.

The post later said, “Last week after he (Goodchild) came out of a very sick patient’s surgery he was talking to us about how life was too short and how tomorrow was never promised and to always tell your loved ones you love them everyday because you never know when it’ll be the last time you get to.”

Another former colleague, Rachael Crain, made a post about how Goodchild was the first doctor she worked with directly in the operating room at Piedmont Columbus Hospital.

Crain’s post said Goodchild’s surgery rooms were filled with knowledge, wisdom and fun. Crain continued, “He was such a down to earth man… loved his cars, his family, and we stayed in touch even with my career changes.”

“The world lost an incredible man too soon… you will be so missed Dr. Goodchild… I pray your family finds peace in this situation” Crain said.

However, colleagues weren’t the only people who expressed their love for the late doctor. One of Goodchild’s patients commented on the Ledger-Enquirer’s post of Goodchild’s death to say how much he’ll miss Goodchild.

Frances McDaniel commented, “I had to have 2 major surgeries and he did them both also 2 minor ones.” McDaniel later said, “ I know I will miss him and the talks we had.”

Jim Wadkins commented that Goodchild performed one of his surgeries and said Goodchild was a “very nice man.”

“May he rest in peace,” Wadkins commented.