Barbara J. Goodrich
February 2, 1951 – July 30, 2024
Barbara Joan (Koory) Goodrich, age 73, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on February 2, 1951, in Omaha, NE, Barbara was a bright and ambitious student, graduating as Valedictorian from Mercy High School. She pursued her passion for education, earning her undergraduate degree from the University of Nebraska Lincoln and eventually a master’s degree in education from the University of Nebraska Omaha.
Barbara married Dr. Paul Goodrich, and together they raised three sons: Dr. Christopher Goodrich, Dr. Nathaniel (Dr. Stephanie Goodrich) Goodrich, and the late Benjamin Goodrich. Barbara’s family was her greatest joy.
Barbara dedicated many years to teaching seventh and eighth grade English at Millard South, Christ the King, and finally at St. Robert Bellarmine. Throughout her career, she made a significant impact on her students as an English teacher. Known for her unwavering commitment to her students, she was deeply appreciated for her drive and dedication. Her miniature dachshunds, Emmy, Maddie, and Lily were cherished companions who brought additional warmth and comfort to her classroom.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Barbara was highly involved in her community and an avid sports fanatic. Whether cheering on the Huskers or watching numerous Sunday NFL games, Barbara loved talking about the sports happenings of the day. Barbara had a special place in her heart for the San Francisco 49ers. Barbara could be found reading daily and often several books at one time. She loved gardening, being outdoors, and nurturing the home she created. More than anything, though, Barbara dearly loved her students, friends, and most of all her family.
Mass of Christian Burial: Wednesday, August 7th, 10:30AM at St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church with visitation starting at 9:30AM.
Private Interment: Resurrection
Memorials may be directed to St. Robert’s Catholic School, Omaha Public Library or the Nebraska Dachshund Rescue.
Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler, West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha, Ne 68124. (402)-391-3900. www.heafeyheafey.com
4 Comments
It was my privilege to have been a colleague of Barb’s in the mid-1970s when we were both beginning our careers at Millard High and again in the last 10 years when we were both speech team coaches on the same circuit. She was an excellent teacher, devoted to her students, a role model who was always cheering for them, and among the finest in our profession. Definitely one very focused and sincere individual who impacted many lives. My condolences to her family.
I was deeply saddened to hear of Mrs. Goodrich’s passing on Tuesday. As someone who was a student of hers 10 years ago, I can still feel the impact of her support in the classroom. She had a wonderful presence and was a wealth of knowledge who inspired me to become a teacher and, hopefully, I can fill my students lives with as much inspiration as she filled mine.
Mrs. Goodrich was my teacher nearly two decades ago, but her impact on my education and love of literature continues to live on. My condolences to her family and friends.
Mrs. Goodrich was our 7th grade teacher at St Adalberts in South Omaha in the mid 70s. She was an awesome teacher who had the respect of the students in the classroom, including me.
Condolences to the family, keeping you in our prayers.
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