Shirley Gooden Obituary

Shirley Ann Gooden, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at the age of 95. Born on March 29, 1930, Shirley was the cherished daughter of the late Walter Voracek and the late Mamie Blue; devoted wife of the late George G. Gooden, Sr.; loving mother of George G. Gooden, Jr., David (Frances) Gooden, Eric (Jean) Gooden, and Thomas (Mona) Gooden. She was a proud grandmother to Catherine (Justin) Meschler, Matt (Regina) Gooden, Caroline (Joseph) Seibel, Ally Gooden, Bridget Gooden, Shanna (Ryan) Ackerman, Louis Lathrop, and Jana Schmitz, and a dear great-grandmother to many. Shirley had a gentle presence and a thoughtful spirit. Though somewhat quiet, she deeply valued meaningful conversations and the close-knit circle of friends with whom she shared a love of Bridge. She enjoyed the arts and nature, and passed those passions on to her grandchildren, becoming affectionately known as "Book Grandma" for the many stories shared together. A lifelong learner and creative soul, Shirley studied at Northwest Missouri State and earned an associate degree in Interior Design from Maryville University. She was a member of the American Society of Interior Designers and the Webster Groves Historical Society. Early in life, she enjoyed helping family and friends beautify their homes, offering a designer's eye and a loving touch. Though she took great pride in her education and interests, Shirley's most important role was that of mother and grandmother. As a stay-at-home mom and Cub Scout Den Mother, she created a warm and nurturing home. She found joy in knitting, gardening, sewing, reading, and later in life, bird watching. She loved visiting the Gulf Coast of Florida, and had a special fondness for Alameda, California, where she made many happy memories. She cherished outings to the Art Museum, History Museum, and Botanical Gardens with her grandchildren, enriching their lives with culture, stories, and quiet wonder. Shirley found comfort in classical music, public radio, and PBS-especially Channel 9, which she supported faithfully. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to PBS Channel 9 in honor of Shirley's lifelong appreciation for learning and the arts. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.