ST CLAIR, Mo. - Mabel Louise Goforth, known to all as Louise, of St. Clair, MO, departed this life in St. Clair on September 8, 2017, having reached the age of eighty-one years, four months and eighteen days. Louise was born in Gideon, MO, on April 20, 1936, daughter of Oliver Ben Spence and Marjorie Fern Spence nee Spickelmier. On June 18, 1955, she was united in marriage to Billie Carl Goforth, known to all as Bill, and four children came to bless this union.
Louise is survived by her husband, Bill Goforth of St. Clair; by three children, Mark Goforth of St. Clair, Ben Goforth of Merriam, KS and by Molly Shaffar and husband, Michael, of St. Clair; by six grandchildren, Devon Goforth of St. Clair, Ethan Goforth of Washington, MO, Hannah Goforth of Lee Summit, MO, Tessa Twitty of Union, MO, and Brandi and Heather Goforth of Sacramento, CA; by three great-grandchildren, Michael and Orion Goforth of Sacramento and Gabriel Bishop of Union; by two sisters, Kathy Wibert and husband, Rev. Jerry, and Bonnie Farmer and husband, Gary, both of Poplar Bluff, MO; by one brother-in-law, Gene Eubanks of Poplar Bluff; by nieces and nephews, great and great-great-nieces and nephews, cousins and many friends.
Louise was preceded in death by her parents, Oliver and Marjorie Spence; by one son, Samuel Goforth, and by one sister, Becky Eubanks.
Louise was a Christian and lifelong devoted member of the United Methodist Church of St. Clair, MO. She was a Sunday school teacher for many years, and had served the church as the organist for more than thirty years. Louise was a member of Lamplighters, now known as United Methodist Women and was an active member of the kitchen committee. After graduating high school, she attended college and obtained her teaching certificate and taught for one year at a one room school, Miller Creek School, in Williamsville, MO. After her marriage Louise made caring for her home and family her career in life. She and Bill also served as foster parents and had opened their home to over 60 foster children over a twenty-five year period. She enjoyed baking and sewing for her family. Another thing that Louise enjoyed was spending time outside, whether it was tending to the flowers in her garden or other yard work, you could always find a smile on her face. She was a talented musician and enjoyed giving piano lessons to many children in the area. Her grandchildren and family were truly her pride and joy and she was happiest when she was with them. The wonderful memories created with her family and friends will give them great joy forever.
Visitation was held from 3:00 to 8:00 PM on Sunday, September 10, 2017, at Russell Colonial Funeral Home in St. Clair, MO. Funeral services were held at 10:00 AM on Monday, September 11, 2017, at the United Methodist Church of St. Clair with the Rev. John Hampton, Jr. officiating. Interment was in Crestview Memorial Park, St. Clair, MO. Memorials are preferred and may be made to the United Methodist Church of St. Clair, MO.
Paid