Freda E. Goostree, 82, of Iuka, Illinois, passed away peacefully at her home on May 30, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born on March 5, 1944, in Salem, Illinois, Freda was the daughter of George and Eva (McDonald) Jourdan. On June 22, 1961, she married the love of her life, Tommy R. Goostree, in Salem, Illinois. Together they shared a devoted marriage and built a loving family that remained the center of her life.
Freda retired after 34 years of dedicated service at the Salem Walmart, where she was known for her strong work ethic, friendly smile, and caring nature. She was a faithful attendee of Calumet Street Christian Church in Centralia for over 25 years. She found great joy in reading, sewing, spending time with family, and serving others through her kindness and encouragement.
She is survived by her husband, Tommy R. Goostree of Iuka; her five children, Julie Beasley and husband Doug of Kell, Sheila Sodsaikitch and husband Bok of Centralia, Dodie Becton and husband Dr. Wendell Becton of Swansea, Tammy Renae Winters and husband Keith of Centralia, and Tommy Goostree Jr. and wife Megan of Benton; 17 grandchildren, Shanna, Justin, Jared, Datyn, Dyman, Dray, Danna, Brooke, Kelsie, Jeana, Payton, Parker, Dari, Onna, Dillyn, Zayne, Molly; seven great-grandchildren, Rylan, Maddox, Ridge, Miles, Sadie, Reign, and Camille; one brother, Leroy Jourdan of Rock Falls, Illinois; and a sister-in-law, Eula Mae Hickey of Centralia, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Eva Jourdan, and seven siblings.
Funeral services for Freda E. Goostree will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Crouse Funeral Home in Salem with Dr. Anthony Sweeney officiating. Interment will follow at Bell Cemetery in Iuka. There will be a visitation held on Friday from 10:00 am until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and can be received at the funeral home. Online condolences and memories can be left at www.CrouseFH.com
