Obituary: John Goede
The ITF is saddened to learn of the death of one of the Caribbean’s leading tennis figures, John Goede, who passed away on 16 May aged 65. Born in Suriname, he was ITF Development Officer for the English-speaking Caribbean from 2013-2025 during a coaching career spanning four decades.
Goede was a graduate of the University of Suriname in geography, an appropriate subject considering the many countries he went on to influence during his time in tennis. Early in his career he owned the John Goede tennis school in Suriname where he attracted athletes from all over the region. He went on to become national coach of Suriname, managing the national team from 1996-2003.
Goede first worked with the ITF in 2003 as a part-time development expert, working with the federation for ten years until he became the full-time ITF Development Officer for the Caribbean region. During his 12 years in position, he played an important role in strengthening tennis throughout the region, earning the respect of many players, coaches and administrators. He was always looking to develop his skills, and was also an ITF certified tutor and white-badge referee.
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In April 2026, Goede was named as Technical Director of the STB (Surinaamse Tennisbond), a position he is now sadly unable to fulfil due to his untimely death.
Debbie Kirkwood, ITF Head of Performance and Events, said: “Everyone at the ITF was deeply saddened to learn of John’s sudden passing. To his friends, colleagues and family, he was passionate, generous, funny and most of all, kind. John was an unwavering advocate for tennis in Caribbean during his 39-year career, 12 of which were as the ITF’s Development Officer for the Caribbean. His contribution was considerable and impacted the lives of many. John will be dearly be missed by all.”
A devoted father, John his survived by his daughter Carentxa and son Yannick. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.