The Piedmont University community is mourning the loss of one of its own, as musical theater student Johnny Goodwyn, lovingly known as Seven, passed away on the evening of August 22. Known for his creativity, dedication and bright spirit, Seven touched the lives of many, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and inspiration.
Seven fought a long battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. During these unimaginably hard times, he was consistently loved and supported by the Richman family, who offered him not only a place to live but a home. Through all that he faced, he never let that affect how he loved people wholeheartedly and his burning passion for the theater arts.
“Johnny wanted to be an actor and, since his high school years, has actively participated in theater. His talent and passion for theater is unmatched. He is an incredibly kind, honest, and giving young man who always has a smile on his face, even through his hardships. Johnny never fails to find a positive,” wrote Paul Richman.
His love for theater carried him well past high school and right into the walls of the Swanson Center, where he undoubtedly left a sizable impact on anyone he met.
In an Instagram post, the Theatre Arts department shared, “Seven was incredibly talented, passionate, loving, goofy, ridiculously funny and welcoming to everyone he met. When you walked into any room, or on any stage, you could not help but notice.”
“He could talk forever about all things WWE, video games, or his workout routine. His huge smile was contagious, and we love him. Seven loved so many and was loved by so many. Though we will miss him terribly, he and his influence will live in our hearts forever.”
Funeral arrangements have been made and can be found in the description of Seven’s GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-johnnys-final-journey.
In lieu of flowers, Seven has requested that donations be made in his honor to Piedmont University’s Theatre Department so that they may share the gift of theater that he so deeply valued: https://www.piedmont.edu/giving-to-piedmont-university/make-a-gift/
If interested in sharing any beloved memories with Seven, please do so here.
