Mary Goan

Mary K. Goan, a beloved mom, grandma, nana, sister, and retiree from the State of Tennessee, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025, in Greenbrier, TN. Born on March 19, 1946, in Louisville, KY, Mary dedicated her life to nurturing her family and instilling the values of love and kindness.

Mary K. began her career as a Data Center Operator for the State of Tennessee, a role she embraced with diligence and pride. However, it was her role as a mother that brought her the deepest fulfillment. She was the proud mother of James Norman "Jay" Goode, Jr. and Mary Elysse (Jackie) Jackson. Her greatest joy stemmed from seeing her children thrive, and she cherished every moment spent in their company, always making them feel loved and supported.

Mary K’s heart was immensely generous, and her capacity for love seemed boundless. She poured her affection into everything she did, whether it was sewing delightful aprons for gifts, creating clothes for Elysse during her childhood, or making stuffed animals for police officers to provide comfort to scared children. Her biggest accomplishment, however, was undoubtedly her grandchildren, with her recent pride shining through as she traveled to Knoxville on May 17 to witness Tyler Herndon graduate from the University of Tennessee with his Master’s Degree.

Mary K’s loving spirit is also remembered in the stories shared by her family, like the laughter that echoed through the house during Thanksgiving when her son Jay created farting noises in his armpit with a straw, bringing Mary K. to tears laughing. In moments of challenge, she was blessed to have family members like Elysse and Jay who brought smiles to her face by turning the tide with humor, even during a playful times squishing chocolate pudding through their teeth and it ending in a food fight.

In addition to her children, Mary K. is survived by her grandchildren: Catlin Gail (Johnny) Fleshman, Justin Thomas Goode, Nathan Tyler (Ashley) Herndon, Marisa Jackson, and Faith (Robert) Miller, as well as her great-grandchild, Juniper Lynn Fleshman. Her brother, Jack (Diann) Gardner, also mourns her loss. The legacy of her love extends to her feline companions, Ma Keeta and Baby Keeta, who remain a testament to her caring nature.

Mary K’s parents and her husband, William Robert Goan, predeceased her in death, leaving a legacy of love that continues to inspire all who knew her. The imprint of her biggest heart will forever be felt by her family and friends, and her spirit will live on in the cherished memories they hold dear.

A memorial to celebrate Mary K’s life will be held at Springfield First United Methodist Church in Springfield, TN. on June 7, 2025. Visitation with the family will be at 9 AM with the memorial following at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to the Springfield UMW at Springfield First United Methodist Church in Springfield, TN.