Elma Jean (Gooch-Thomas) Smith

Elma Jean Smith

1948 - 2024

Elma “Jean” Smith surrounded by her family and friends transitioned from this earthly life to her eternal home, Thursday, March 28, 2024 at 12:49 pm.

Elma Jean Gooch-Thomas was born June 28, 1948 in New Orleans, La. to the union of Edward Thomas and Mildred Catherine Gooch.

Elma Jean graduated from Long Beach Polytechnic High School in 1966 Long Beach, CA. Two years later, she met the love of her life, Lionel J. Smith, at Long Beach Naval Station; and shortly after, the couple moved to Hahnville and started a new chapter in their life.  They had four beautiful children; Donique A. Lee (Robert L. Lee); Detrick Smith (deceased); Arrianna Smith-Martin (Chris); Jermaine M. Smith (Lindsey).

She is preceded in death by her father-in-law, Roland Smith, Sr. and her brothers-in-law,  Robert A. Smith and Harold E. Smith; her Aunts Elvira Jackson, Mary Lou Gooch-Ferguson,  Gloria Gooch, Mildred Gooch and her Uncle, Robert Gooch, Jr.; and survived by six grandchildren; Zhane’ Jean Smith-Barnes (Nyles); Hunter Imani Kerlegan, Jourdan “Jae” Nichelle Lee; Tariq Christopher Smith; Trei Detrick Lee; Ryli Camille Martin; and one Great-Grandchild; Cayson Nyles Barnes; her mother-in-law Viola R. Smith; Roland Smith, Jr. (Aleshia); Gilbert V. Smith (Anna); Shirline S. Johnson (Frank); and Eric E. Smith and Lloyd Smith (wife of Harold); along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was mostly known as Jean Smith. She worked for Union Carbide Purchasing/Store Department until 1994 when she retired under total disability. After her retirement, she devoted herself to the Lord, her husband and children.  Jean was most happy when family was around her and all of the many friends she made throughout the years.

After a long battle with her health, Jean was called home on Thursday, March 28, 2024, at the age of 75 to be with her Heavenly Father.  She will be missed by all that knew her and loved her; she will live in the hearts and memories of her family and friends forever.

Relatives and friends of the family, Pastors, Officers and Members of The Historic Bethlehem Baptist Church and all neighboring Churches are invited to the Celebration of Life Service at 11:00am on Saturday, April 6, 2024 at The Historic Bethlehem Baptist Church, 14989 River Road, Hahnville, LA 70057. Rev. Rodney L. Johnson, Pastor.  Visitation 9:00am until time of Service at the above-named church.  Interment Holy Rosary Cemetery, Taft, LA.  Final Arrangements Entrusted to Patrick H. Sanders Funeral Home & Funeral Directors, 605 Main Street, Laplace, LA 70068. 985-359-1919. “Providing Care & Comfort is Our Highest Mission,”

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