Goodwillie Surname

The History of the Goodwillie Surname

The surname Goodwillie is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic name "Mac Gille Dhaibhidh," which means "son of the servant of St. David." The name was likely given to someone who worked for a church dedicated to St. David, a popular saint in medieval Scotland. Over time, the name evolved into Goodwillie, and it has been passed down through generations of Scottish families.

Goodwillie is a relatively rare surname, with the highest incidence in the United States, where there are an estimated 300 individuals with the last name. Scotland has the second highest incidence, with 134 individuals, followed by England with 65, Ireland with 30, Canada with 12, Australia with 4, and a few individuals in Germany, New Zealand, and Qatar.

Notable People with the Surname Goodwillie

David Goodwillie

One of the most well-known individuals with the surname Goodwillie is David Goodwillie, a Scottish professional footballer who plays as a striker for Clyde in the Scottish League Two. Goodwillie has had a successful career in football, playing for clubs such as Dundee United, Blackburn Rovers, and Aberdeen.

Jim Goodwillie

Another notable person with the Goodwillie surname is Jim Goodwillie, a Canadian professional golfer who has competed in various tournaments around the world. Goodwillie has won several championships and is known for his skill on the golf course.

The Meaning of the Goodwillie Surname

The surname Goodwillie has a positive and altruistic connotation, as it is derived from the Gaelic term "Mac Gille Dhaibhidh," which translates to "son of the servant of St. David." The name suggests a connection to a religious figure and a dedication to serving others, reflecting values of kindness, generosity, and goodwill.

Popularity and Distribution of the Goodwillie Surname

Although the surname Goodwillie is relatively rare compared to more common surnames, such as Smith or Johnson, it is still present in several countries around the world. The United States has the highest incidence of Goodwillie, with 300 individuals bearing the surname. Scotland, the name's country of origin, has the second highest incidence, followed by England, Ireland, Canada, and other countries with smaller numbers of individuals.

North America

In North America, the Goodwillie surname is most prevalent in the United States and Canada, where individuals with Scottish ancestry have brought the name with them over the centuries. In the US, the name is most common in states with large Scottish populations, such as New York, Pennsylvania, and Illinois.

United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, the Goodwillie surname is most common in Scotland, where the name originated. It is also present in England and Ireland, albeit in smaller numbers. The name has likely spread through migration and intermarriage between Scottish and English families over the years.

Other Regions

Outside of North America and the United Kingdom, the Goodwillie surname is less common but still present in countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Germany, and Qatar. These individuals may have Scottish heritage or connections to Scottish immigrants who brought the name with them to these regions.

Genealogy and Family History

For individuals interested in tracing their genealogy and family history, the Goodwillie surname can provide valuable insights into their Scottish roots and heritage. By researching historical records, such as census data, birth and marriage certificates, and church records, individuals can uncover information about their ancestors and how the surname has been passed down through the generations.

Genealogical research can also help individuals connect with living relatives who share the Goodwillie surname and explore their family links across different countries and continents. By building a family tree and documenting the history of the Goodwillie surname, individuals can create a lasting legacy for future generations to cherish and preserve.

Conclusion

The surname Goodwillie is a unique and meaningful name with a rich history and heritage rooted in Scotland. With a positive connotation of goodwill and service, the name has been passed down through generations of Scottish families and is now present in various countries around the world. By exploring the meaning, distribution, and genealogy of the Goodwillie surname, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of their family roots and connections to the past.

The surname Goodwillie within the world

Globalization has meant that surnames spread far beyond their nation of origin, such that it is possible to find African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Similar occurs when it comes to Goodwillie, which as you're able to corroborate, it may be stated that it is a surname which can be present in the majority of the nations regarding the world. In the same manner you will find countries by which truly the density of men and women aided by the surname Goodwillie is higher than far away.

The map associated with the Goodwillie surname

1. United States (300)
2. Scotland (134)
3. England (65)
4. Ireland (30)
5. Canada (12)
6. Australia (4)
7. Germany (1)
8. New Zealand (1)
9. Qatar (1)