Our beloved mother and granny, Lela Mae Goree, left this earth Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, to be with her Lord and Savior. She left us with memories of her tremendous love for her family and strong faith in the Lord.

Lela was born the second of nine children to W.T. Goodman and Nettie V. Russell Goodman on Aug. 5, 1914, in Hardeman County. She loved the outdoors and had a hardworking but happy childhood. She loved telling stories about how she could handle the horses and mules as well as any man. On July 18, 1931, at the age of 17, she married Ray H. Goree. They were married almost 75 years when he passed away in March 2005, and were an inspiring example of love and devotion throughout their marriage. In 1976 they retired to Tyler and became faithful members of GABC. They treasured the fellowship of their Sunday school class. Lela was a top-notch bowler in the church senior league. Lela was an avid gardener and her yard was always a showplace. She was loved, cherished and admired by family and friends, and will be greatly missed.

Survivors include one sister, Dorothy Smith and one brother, Harmon Goodman; two daughters, Lela Allison and husband Len, Nettie Hamilton and husband Boyd; four grandchildren and spouses, Jerry Hamilton and Debra, Nolan Meek and Pam, Cindy Stephenson and Bob, Keith Meek and Karen; five great-grandchildren, Robert, Rachel, Kelly, Daniel and Melanie; and one great-great-grandson, Kyler.

Pallbearers will be Jerry Hamilton, Bob Stephenson, Nolan Meek, Keith Meek, Robert Stephenson and Daniel Stephenson.

Services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2012, at Burks Walker Tippit Funeral Directors, Tyler. Visitation is one hour prior to service.

If desired, donations may be made to The Salvation Army of Tyler.