Sheila Kay Goodaker

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Sheila’s kindness and commitment to others were evident until the very end, as her final act of generosity was organ donation—a powerful testament to her caring spirit.

Sheila Kay Goodaker, age 72, of Smithland, lovingly remembered by many, passed away on August 4, 2026, at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, Indiana. Born February 11, 1954, in Clarksville, Tennessee, Sheila’s life was marked by deep compassion, unwavering faith, and a steadfast devotion to her family and community.

Sheila’s kindness and commitment to others were evident until the very end, as her final act of generosity was organ donation—a powerful testament to her caring spirit.

She was the cherished wife of Darryl Goodaker, with whom she shared years of love and support. Sheila was a devoted mother to her sons, Kevin Goodaker (Jenny) of Ledbetter and Darryn Goodaker (Tammy) of Grand Rivers, and a loving aunt to Caleb Hodge, whom she honorably took in as her own after the passing of her sister. Her siblings Wanda Paris (Junior) of Smithland and Connie Monroe (Jimmy) of Smithland were not only her sisters but also her close companions who shared many special moments, especially singing together at church.

Her role as a grandmother brought her immense joy, and she leaves a lasting legacy to her grandchildren: Kagan Goodaker, Kolton Goodaker, Johnathan Goodaker, Kainan Goodaker, James Query, Kaylor Goodaker, and Karmen Molina. The circle of love continues through her great-grandchildren: Kairi, Bentley, Kora, Harper, Neriah, Iris, and Ariel.

Sheila’s loving heart was shaped by her family, including those who preceded her in death: her father Alfred “Red” Phillips, her mother Marie Phillips, and her sister Cindy Phillips-Hodge.

A faithful servant of her savior, Jesus Christ, Sheila was a devoted member of Potters House in Smithland. Her faith was her foundation and her guide, directing her steps, her generosity, and her joyful worship. In her younger years, she found great happiness playing the piano for her Sunday School class when she attended Southland Baptist Temple and she cherished the moments spent singing alongside her sisters in church.

Sheila’s nurturing nature extended beyond her family and congregation to her profession. After receiving her associate’s degree, she embarked on a remarkable nursing career, dedicating over 26 years as a registered nurse at Livingston County Hospital before retiring. It was a vocation, not just a job, reflected in her tireless care and encouragement to all those she served. Among her proudest accomplishments was her longstanding contribution to the nursing profession and the lives she touched.

Beyond her work and her faith, Sheila delighted in life’s simple pleasures. She loved working crossword puzzles and found solace and beauty in playing the piano. Travel brought her joy, with Cades Cove holding a special place in her heart.

Those who knew Sheila remember her as a true caregiver—someone who inspired others to believe in themselves and always placed the wellbeing and happiness of others at the forefront of her life.

Family and friends will gather to celebrate Sheila’s life and legacy. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Keeling & Goodman Funeral Home, 2410 Jackson Street, Paducah, KY 42003. An additional visitation will take place on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the same location, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM, officiated by Bro. Andrew Sexton. A graveside service will be held afterward at Oak Grove Cemetery in Ledbetter, Kentucky, with Bro. Sexton also officiating.

Sheila Kay Goodaker’s memory will be forever cherished. Her legacy lives on in the hearts she healed, the family she nurtured, and the gentle, guiding presence she was to all who knew her.

Keeling & Goodman Funeral Home is honored to serve the Goodaker family.