Diane Katherine Goodman, 79, of Eureka, formerly Bayside, went home to be with her Heavenly Father on October 23, 2024. She was a beloved educator, mom, sister and friend whose life goal was to see the best in everyone she knew.

Born on March 22, 1945 in Los Angeles to Fred Fredericks and Diane “Cookie” Fredericks. Her lifelong love of dogs started in Brentwood, her childhood home, with Mike, a terrier mix. She swam competitively, with her brother Jerry. Kathy attended Pacific Palisades HS then Humboldt State College (Cal Poly), where she graduated with a degree in Elementary Education, and met David, to whom she was married for 13 years. They adopted Andrew in 1976. She was so proud of the man Andrew became, and of his service to our country. The bulk of her teaching career was at Jacoby Creek charter school, as a 4th and 5th grade teacher. She said she liked this age because they were still impressionable and not too sassy, yet.

Kathy had many hobbies: gardening, baking, canning the fruits of her labor, watching the eagle cams, her pets, choir, Bible study, reading and puzzles. Her garden in Bayside was her joy with all its roses, fruit trees and other perennials. She worked her yard and planters and was always “tickled” when the blooms started and the fruit was rolling in. Furry friends were constant companions: notably Penny, Pearl and Diva. Kathy loved her church, served in the choir and hosted Bible studies in her home. Exercise classes and working puzzles at Timber Ridge with new friends were on her daily “to do” since moving there in May 2024.

Kathy is predeceased by her parents, Fred and Cookie Fredericks, as well as her son, Andrew Goodman. She is survived by her “big brother” Jerry (Linda), nephew Jonathan (Reaghen) and great niece Emma, ex-husband, David, many friends from church, work and her community, as well as new friends at Timber Ridge. Kathy deeply loved her church family at Arcata Presbyterian and was so grateful for those who came alongside to help with her transition from her home in Bayside to Timber Ridge.

Memorial service: November 23, 1 p.m. at Arcata Presbyterian Church.

Kathy has requested, in lieu of flowers, that donations be made to Arcata Presbyterian Church.