WEST SPRINGFIELD – Shirley Fern Goodwin (Yelinek), 95, passed away peacefully on November 11th, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones.
Outspoken was her personality. Not one to hold her tongue, she always said it like it was and wore honesty like a badge. She was the first one to jump in if help was needed. There was always room for love in her heart and room at her table. Being a mother and grandmother was her most precious honor. Her love for children was so great she fostered over 250 children in 25 years. She was an active lay minister at First Congregational Church of West Springfield and later in Fairplay, Missouri. She retired to Florida, where she lived by the ocean for many years before returning home. She’s a very avid believer in organ donation as she received a liver transplant at Miami Transplant Center in 1995. She is also a lover of animals.
She was predeceased in 2013 by her husband of 62 years, “Jimmy” James Goodwin, Jr.
She leaves behind her three children, Glenn Goodwin, Debra Young, and Jody Goodwin, along with many foster children who still call her mom, many grandchildren, and a few great-grandchildren who love and call her Gigi. She also leaves behind her nephews, Brent Bean, Mark Yelinek, and Dirk Yelinek.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Agawam North staff for their loving care and also to New England Hospice.
All services will be private. End of life arrangements entrusted to Avalon Life Celebration Center & Cremation Services, LLC, 691 College Highway, Southwick, MA 01077. To express condolences, please visit www.avaloncelebrations.com
