William Daniel "Danny" Gooch, 73, of Carrollton, passed away Monday, September 21, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Danny was born on January 9, 1953, in Randolph County, the son of William Harold and Alice LaRue (Whipple) Gooch.

Survivors include: son, William Jason Gooch of Mountain Home, AR; two grandchildren, William Jacob Gooch and Elijah Gooch; three sisters: Debbie Clapper of Carrollton, Donna (Randall) Ford of Sweet Springs, and Deena (Ed) Hightower of Marshall; many nieces and nephews also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Danny was raised and educated in Norborne and graduated from Norborne High School with the Class of 1971. Following high school, he worked for a time at Con-Agra, for a local farmer, and for the Missouri Highway Department before beginning his lifelong career as a truck driver with Crete Trucking Company out of Kansas City. As an over-the-road truck driver, Danny traveled all across the country, logging countless miles and taking great pride in his work. Throughout his career, he received numerous awards and accolades for his driving skills and dedication to safety, including being named Safest Driver of the Year and receiving recognition for reaching both one million and two million miles of safe driving.

Danny had a unique hobby of collecting empty aluminum cans from his travels across the country and was a proud member of the Aluminum Bottle Cannoisseurs. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family. Danny shared a special bond with his sisters, who were an important part of his life. Their love and devotion to him remained steadfast, and they were there to care for him during his final days.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to either Shirkey Hospice or American Cancer Society.  They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. at the Heritage Hall in Norborne.  Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond is in charge of arrangements.  Please remember to share your memories of Danny with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.