Charlie Goodson, founder of Charley G's and a Lafayette dining icon, died at 81 after battling esophageal cancer.

Charlie Goodson, the 81-year-old founder of Charley G's and a pivotal figure in Lafayette’s dining scene, has died at his home after a battle with esophageal cancer. He co-founded several acclaimed restaurants, including Café Vermilionville and Hub City Diner, and helped launch the Eat Lafayette initiative. A longtime advocate for local cuisine, Goodson earned Restaurateur of the Year honors in 2017 and was inducted into the Louisiana Restaurant Association Hall of Fame in 2006. His passing is mourned by the culinary community and those who knew him as a mentor and leader.