January 10, 1947 - January 31, 2026
Kay Marie Goode is now reunited with her loved ones in her heavenly home. While her family mourns her passing, they find comfort in knowing she has now joined those who went before her and they all rest forever in the loving arms of our Lord.
Saved as a young girl, Kay was a lifelong member of Little Mulberry Missionary Baptist in the Mulberry Gap community of Hancock County.
To know Kay was to know an educator. Above all else, she believed deeply in the power of education and the doors it opens for the future. She devoted 45 years to serving students and communities in the Tennessee educational system, working to ensure opportunity awareness for all, especially first-generation college students. Throughout her career, she served as Executive Director of the Clinch Powell Educational Cooperative, Talent Search Director, school administrator, and teacher—each role embraced with dedication and gratitude.
Though she valued every position she was privileged to hold, one remained especially close to her heart: her early years at the small schoolhouse-- Alanthus Hill, where she served as both principal and teacher. The students of Alanthus Hill held a special place in her heart, and memories of those days always brought smiles. Although memory failed her in her later years, the faces of students and families from those early years were still vivid and strong.
Kay is preceded in death by her parents Thurman and Bess Goode; her brother and sister-in-law Otis and Nancy Sue Goode; and her sister Betty Lou Goode Cole.
She is survived by her nieces-- Norma Leishman; Margaret Martin and her husband Craig. Her grandchildren (grand nieces and nephews) -- Coy Leishman and his wife Hannah; McKaylah Martin; and Kyler Martin. Kay also leaves many cousins, church family and life-long friends that she held dear.
Services will be held at Coffey Funeral Home Saturday, February 7, 2026. Visitation will begin at 12 PM; funeral at 1 PM; and interment following at Fairview Memorial Cemetery.
Rev. Richard Minton will officiate.
Terry Keck, music.
