MELODEE C. GOODWIN

Melodee Craft Goodwin, 71, of Green Pond, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, May 31, 2026. Born on September 6, 1954, in Magee, Mississippi, Melodee was the beloved daughter of the late Imogene (Harrell) Craft and Randall E. Lee Craft. She grew up in Mize, Mississippi, where she developed the strong faith, servant's heart, and caring spirit that would guide her throughout her life. In 1975, Melodee earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Merchandising from Mississippi University for Women. Then in 1976, she married the love of her life, Raymond B. Goodwin and together, they settled in Green Pond where they built a home centered on faith, family, and service to others. She worked as Assistant Buyer for Epstein’s department store in Morristown, New Jersey until they started a family. Her greatest joy was being a homemaker while her children were growing up. She lovingly cared for her family by preparing homemade meals, creating a warm and welcoming home, and ensuring that every detail of family life was attended to with care. She found great fulfillment in nurturing those she loved and making her home a place of comfort, encouragement, and hospitality. Melodee was actively involved in her children's schools throughout their upbringing. She served as President of the Parent-Teacher Association and served on the Home and School Association, always willing to volunteer her time and energy wherever needed. After both of her children left for college, Melodee worked as Secretary to the Guidance Supervisor at Morris Hills High School until her retirement in 2016. Prayer was a cornerstone of Melodee's life. She became involved with Moms in Prayer when her children were young and for a time, served as Regional Facilitator. For over three decades, she faithfully gathered with other mothers to pray for their children, families, schools, and communities, continuing this ministry until the end of her life. Her commitment to prayer naturally extended into a lifetime of service. A woman of deep faith and compassion, Melodee dedicated much of her life to serving others. She believed that caring for people was one of life's greatest callings and quietly touched countless lives through her generosity and kindness. She served as Secretary on the Board of Directors for My Brother's Place in Hamburg, New Jersey, and worked as a Case Manager, helping families facing difficult circumstances. She also delivered fresh vegetables to families in need, reflecting her practical and heartfelt desire to care for others. Melodee was a devoted and longtime member of Green Pond Bible Chapel. Over the years, she volunteered in many capacities, including the Nursery, Sunday School, Girls Club, and hosting Care Group gatherings in her home. She found great joy in fellowship and worship, singing in the Women's Quartet and church choir and playing the French horn in the church band. She also treasured attending Bible studies, women's retreats, and building lasting friendships through her church community. Throughout her life, she remained active in her community and enjoyed participating in the Green Pond Women's Club. Outside of her volunteer work, Melodee cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren. She nurtured them and lovingly crocheted gifts for them, creating treasures that reflected her warmth and devotion. Melodee was predeceased by her parents, Randall E. Lee Craft, who passed away in 2002 and Imogene Craft, who passed away in 2008. She leaves behind her beloved husband, Raymond; her loving son, Kyle Craft Goodwin and his wife, Amanda; her loving daughter, Jacquelyn Goodwin Oehlers and her husband, Axel; and her cherished grandchildren, Charlotte Goodwin, Wesley Goodwin, and Julia Oehlers, who brought immense joy to her life. She is also survived by her dear siblings, Sandra Cooper, Randall Craft, and Stephanie Henning; her nieces, Melissa Stewart, Kathy Jackson, Cara Lesperance, and Holly Henning; her nephews, Peter Benoit, James Goodwin, and Andrew Henning; and many extended family members, friends, neighbors, and church family who were blessed by her friendship and example. Melodee will be remembered for her unwavering faith, servant's heart, gentle spirit, and deep love for her family. She lived a life marked by kindness, hospitality, prayer, and service. Whether caring for her family, supporting a friend, volunteering in her community, or encouraging someone in need, she reflected God's love through both her words and actions. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched and the countless acts of love she performed throughout her life. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. at Green Pond Bible Chapel, 1083 Green Pond Road, Green Pond, New Jersey 07435. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Melodee's memory to My Brother's Place, 225 Route 23, Suite 26, Hamburg, NJ 07419 www.mybrothersplace.com; Green Pond Bible Chapel, P.O. Box 99, Newfoundland, NJ 07435 www.greenpondbible.org; or Solid Rock Day Camp, 37 Stephens Road, West Milford, NJ 07480 www.solidrock.camp. Online condolences and directions are available through the funeral home: www.sticklesolteszfuneralhome.com.

MELODEE C. GOODWIN

September 6, 1954 - May 31, 2026