Callie Mae Goodell

Callie Mae Goodell, age 83, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, January 18, 2024, after battling a long illness. She was of the Christian faith. Her favorite scripture was John 3:16; "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

Callie was born on April 17, 1940, in Raleigh, NC: she was the daughter of the late Mack and Bertie (Bridges) Jacobs and wife for 35 years of the late Philip Burton Goodell, Sr.

She met Philip on a blind date in 1969 and they were married within that same year on 8/29/1969. Her family of 4 became a family of 8. She loved her family and took care of them when Philip was out at sea for months at a time due to his military service. (20 years).

Callie never called any of the family members “step” i.e., children, dad, or mom. Instead, all family members were “bonus” members. Even though she didn’t always have her whole family together all the time, the family was/is, and will continue to be a tight family unit, always loving one another as she wished it to be.

Callie was a homemaker the last 20 years. She loved to read, enjoyed family gatherings, camping with her family, and most of all giving to others. Her favorite holiday was Christmas. She tirelessly baked treats for everyone.

Callie is survived by six children: Russel Rivers of NC, Debra Allman and husband Joseph of WV, Jerri Beck and husband Michael of NC, Philip Goodell Jr. of GA, Deborah Fitzgerald and husband Frank of NH, and Steven Goodell and wife Lois of MA; 12 Grandchildren (to include 1 preceded in death); 17 Great-Grandchildren; 2 Great-Great-Grandchildren plus 1 on the way, due to arrive in August of 2024. Callie was very happy to hear about this new beginning of life before she passed away. Callie was also survived by her sister Rose Marie Lee, whom she dearly loved. Callie was survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends, too numerous to mention. She was so dearly loved by all and will be sorely missed. She is finally with her soulmate who has long awaited her arrival.

A Memorial Service, officiated by Pastor Harry T. Upchurch, will be held on Friday, January 26, 2024 at 1:00 pm in the Chapel of Mitchell Funeral Home. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be livestreamed, with a link to join (active by 12:50 pm that day). Graveside Services will follow at Oakwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital at www.stjude.org

If you would like to send flowers ~ Expressions of Love Florist is available at (919) 552-4512 or through www.expressionsofloveflorist.com

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