Carol Bea Birkey

Carol Bea Birkey departed this world and entered eternity with Jesus in Heaven on May 14, 2022. Carol was born in the sandhills of Nebraska in the town of Ainsworth on January 29,1936 to Minnie and S.T. Moore. Her parents raised eight children in Long Pine, Nebraska along the creek in wide open spaces. Carol’s family worked tirelessly together on the farm, getting by with only the essentials. Their love for one another and their faith in God led them to happiness and success. Carol was married to Richard Goodsell in Minneapolis, Minnesota July 14, 1956. In May of 1957 Carol completed her Bachelor of Arts in Education from Northwestern College. Becoming a mother was Carol’s dream, and she was blessed with five children. Carol raised her family with love and devotion. Her faith in Christ served as the foundation of her home, and Carol leaned upon the Lord even though her life was not always easy. She trusted that God would guide her as she navigated through unexpected trials such as single parenthood, working outside of the home, and continuing her education. Carol earned a Master of Education from Western Washington University in 1977. Professionally, Carol was known for her commitment to helping her students learn to read and write. More importantly, she cared deeply for children and emulated Christ’s love for them. Later in life, Carol was called to the mission field, and her passion to spread the gospel led her to multiple countries across the globe. Carol led many people to believe in Christ and accept Him as their personal Savior. Carol was blessed later in life when she fell in love with Lyle Birkey, a retired pastor, and a Korean veteran. They were married October 4, 2003. Together, Carol and Lyle enjoyed traveling, and many of their adventures were on the mission field. When at home, they cherished spending time with family and friends. Their church family in Dallas, Oregon and in Lake Tapps, Washington were precious to them. Carol’s hobbies included cooking and baking delicious loaves of fresh bread. The scrumptious cinnamon rolls that she made for her family will forever be cherished and longed for! Carol also spent time gardening, sewing, scrap booking and socializing with her many friends. Her kitchen was always open, and her heart was readily available to serve anyone who needed a meal and a word of encouragement. It was always people who were important to Carol, not things. Carol is survived by her five children and their spouses: Rodney Goodsell (Kathy), Brian Goodsell (Traci), Gordon Goodsell (Lynda), Gregory Goodsell, and Sharon Green (Rob). Her grandchildren are Nicholes Goodsell, Marcus Goodsell, Michael Goodsell (Katie), Maria Vera (Roberto), Rachel Baker (Matt), Geoff Goodsell (Kelly), Heidi Ruff (Drew), Zachary Goodsell (Gabrielle), Joshua Goodsell (Kayla), Jennifer Mitzen, Cassandra Goodsell, Tristin Green (Kaitlyn), and Nathan Green. Hergreat-grandchildren are Logan Goodsell, Molly Goodsell, Slade Vera, Azriel Vera, Scott Baker, Noel Baker, Lexie Baker, Henley Goodsell, Kennedy Goodsell, Quinn Ruff, Tessa Goodsell and Brooks Goodsell. Three sisters who survive Carol are Lois Wade, Clara Roundtree and Ardath Sydor. Four of Carol’s siblings who are presently rejoicing with her in Heaven are Ila Horner, Alice Asa, Lynn Moore and Harry Moore. Carol’s memorial service will be held at Lake Tapps Community Church in Lake Tapps, Washington on June 2, 2022, at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Compassion International Colorado Springs, CO 80997 (800) 336-7676 compassion.com Donations can be given in Carol’s name. Carol will be greatly missed, but those who have accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior will spend eternity with her in Heaven (John 3:16 Romans 10:9-10).