04/27/2026
Dr. Wilmer Dean Goldsby, Sr., a devoted husband, father, educator, and servant of the church, transitioned peacefully from labor to reward at his home in North Little Rock, Arkansas, on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the age of 90. Affectionately known to family and friends as âDean,â he lived a life marked by faith, service, and a deep commitment to uplifting others through education and community engagement.
Early Life and Education
Wilmer Dean Goldsby, Sr. was born on June 9, 1935, in Truxno, Louisiana, to Louis and Ola Goldsby. From humble beginnings, he grew into a man of great dignity and quiet strength. He was known for his distinguished presence and impeccable style, always dressed to the nines â even on Saturdays â reflecting the pride he took in himself and the God he served.
During his college years at Allen University in Columbia, South Carolina, Dean excelled both in the classroom and on the field. In 1959, he was initiated into the Pi Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., embracing the fraternityâs cardinal principles of manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift. He was also a star halfback on the Yellow Jackets football team, displaying the same discipline and determination that would later define his lifeâs work.
Christian Service and Educational Leadership
Dr. Goldsby was deeply connected to the African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Church and its affiliated institutions. He served faithfully in leadership roles tied to the churchâs educational and socialâministry work, including service on boards and committees that supported historically Black colleges and communityâbased programs.
His commitment to education found special expression through his long-standing relationship with Shorter College in North Little Rock, Arkansas. There he was entrusted with significant responsibilities and ultimately served as Interim President, helping to strengthen academic programs and support campus growth for future generations of students.
Public and Civic Service
In addition to his work in education and ministry, Dr. Goldsby also answered the call to public service at the state level. In 1986, he entered the Democratic primary for Governor of Arkansas, running in a field that included thenâGovernor Bill Clinton and former Governor Orval Faubus. Although he did not prevail in that race, his willingness to stand for office reflected his conviction that strong, principled leadership could expand opportunity and justice for everyday Arkansans.
Beyond the political arena, Dr. Goldsby was active in civic and nonprofit circles, including service in organizational and financial leadership roles connected with nonprofit and educational work such as Adgam Incorporated and board participation supporting higher-education institutions. His steady presence, collaborative spirit, and thoughtful counsel left a lasting imprint on colleagues, students, church members, and community partners.
A Life of Love and Family
Above all his titles and accomplishments, Dr. Goldsby cherished his role as a family man. He was a beloved husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, and greatâgrandfather. He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Ola Goldsby; his twin sister, Nettie Furlow; his brother, Charlie Goldsby; his son, Wilmer Dean Goldsby, Jr.; his stepâson, Kelly Eddings; his grandson, Anthony Goldsby, Jr.; and his friend and exâwife, Opal Jean Preston Goldsby.
He leaves to celebrate and cherish his memory his children, Cathy Goldsby Lee (Rogers), Anthony Goldsby, Sr., Ricky Goldsby (Maria), Dr. Sandy GibsonâDavis (Joe), Keith Gibson, Kenya Eddings (John Buckman, Jr.), Khayyam Eddings, Esq. (Kimberly), and Lawrence James; 14 grandchildren; 3 greatâgrandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.
His Legacy
Dr. Wilmer Dean Goldsby, Sr. will be remembered for his gentle wisdom, unwavering faith, and unshakeable sense of purpose. He was a man who walked with grace, spoke with quiet authority, and believed deeply in the power of education, service, and faith to transform lives. His legacy lives on in his family, in the students whose paths he helped shape, and in the many people who were strengthened by his example of dignity, perseverance, and service.
Though he is absent from the body, he is present with the Lord, and his lifeâs work continues through all who were blessed to know him.
