There's something about the word "goofball" that is so old-fashioned and fun, that when it comes around to calling someone a goofball, it's almost like you're giving them a compliment.
“He was a goofball,” she said. “I mean, he always made everybody laugh.” “He would give the shirt off his back,” she said. “I mean, as soon as he walked in, he was the life of the party.