Vera Goolsby

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL - Vera Goolsby, age 95, of Cookeville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at NHC of Cookeville. She was born on September 22, 1929, in Cumberland County, Tennessee, to the late Ezra and Myrah Belle Henry McDonald. Vera grew up in Clarkrange, TN, as the only girl among seven children and was beloved by her brothers.

Vera was a devoted mother to her five children: Nolan Goolsby, Norma (Jimmy) Moore, and Ronnie Goolsby of Cookeville, Myra (Randy) Richardson of Lenoir City, TN, and Ilene Call of Oak Hill, OH. She cherished her role as a mother and found her greatest joy in cooking meals for her family, where the warmth of her kitchen became a testament to her love and compassion. Her nurturing spirit extended to her grandchildren, who will miss her dearly: Amy (Brett) Shields of Hermitage, TN, Megan (Rick) Monroe of Cleveland, TN, Jeff (Jill) Moore, Tommy (Heather) Moore, and Phillip (Jordan) Moore of Cookeville, Jennifer Goolsby of Cookeville, Kasey (Daniel) Martin of Rickman, Jonathon Call of Knoxville, and Anthony Call of Oak Hill, OH. Additionally, she found joy in her great-grandchildren, including Jake James, Charlie and William Monroe, Kaylin, J.T. and Liam Moore, Shelby Jones, Layla Buckner, Dylan and Lily Martin, River Call, and Jackson Call.

In addition to her parents, Vera was preceded in death by her husband, Zina (Red) Goolsby, her parents, and her six brothers: Troy, Hoy, Cleo, Marchel, Ray, and Dallas McDonald, along with step-sister Effie Barnes Allred and step-brother Herman Barnes. She was also preceded in death by her beloved daughter-in-law, Carol (Clinton) Goolsby of Cookeville, beloved son-in-law, Milt Call of Oak Hill, OH, and her cherished grandson, Matthew Goolsby of Cookeville.

Vera had a passion for gardening. Her prized peony plant, which originally belonged to her great grandmother, was a source of pride and something she lovingly shared with her children and grandchildren. She was not only a wonderful cook and avid gardener but also a woman of unwavering faith, actively involved in her community as a long-time member of the Bangham Heights Baptist Church. Throughout her life, Vera served in various capacities such as teaching Sunday School, participating on boards, and helping in the nursery. Her famous covered dishes at church functions were always a hit, often leaving her with nothing to bring back home.

Vera's life was marked by her commitment to her family, community, and faith. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she has touched throughout her remarkable life.

A funeral service to honor Vera will begin at 2 p.m. Saturday March 1 at the Cookeville Chapel of Hooper-Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home. Pastor Bill Stone will officiate. Visitation for friends and family will be from 12-2 p.m. Vera will be laid to rest at Crest Lawn Memorial Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers are Vera's family, Jonathon Call, Jeff Moore, Tommy Moore, Phillip Moore, JT Moore, and Jake James.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Bangham Heights Baptist Church Food Pantry, 5961 Hilham Rd. Cookeville, TN 38506

The Cookeville Chapel of Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111 Share condolences and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com