Obituary published on Legacy.com by Lakes Funeral Home on Oct. 1, 2025.
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Berdina Goforth, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great grandmother who departed this life on Thursday August 14, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on December 19, 1931, in Jackson County, Berdina was the cherished daughter of the late Benjamin and Lucy (Templeton) Bowles. Known affectionately as "Granny" to all who knew her, Berdina's life was a testament to love, resilience, and devotion to her family and community. She was not only a devoted mother to her seven children but also opened her heart and home as a foster parent to hundreds of children throughout her life. She could always be found rocking a baby, sewing for the kids, working in her gorgeous flower beds, or cooking large meals for her loved ones. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Kenneth Lee Goforth; her children, infant daughter, Marilyn Fay Goforth and her son Kenneth Bennet Goforth; her grandson, Christopher David Wilds; her sister, Joann Rose and her brothers, Donald Ray Bowles, Vernon Bowles, Earl Bowles and Luther Bowles. Berdina is survived by her loving children: Jerry (Connie) Goforth, Kathy (David) Wilds, Jamie Goforth and Tammie Goforth, all of McKee; and Dewayne Goforth of Williamsburg. Her legacy lives on with twelve grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren and eight great- great-grandchildren each of whom brought her immense pride and joy. She is also survived by her siblings, Lloyd Bowles of Berea and Shelby Jean Turner of Manchester, who will remember her wisdom and kindness. Berdina's legacy is one of unwavering love, gentle strength, and enduring faith. A devoted member of Sand Gap Christian Church, she had a true servant's heart. She was a constant rock for her family, teaching them by example the importance of patience, being slow to anger and quick to forgive, and the value of a strong work ethic--doing all tasks with love and integrity. She instilled these core values in her children and grandchildren. She will fondly be remembered for her classy style, her ever-present smile, and the honest truths she kindly shared. She will be deeply missed, but her love and example will continue to inspire her family for generations to come. As we say good-bye, we are comforted by the thought of her entering eternal peace---oh, how beautiful heaven must be.
Visitation Sunday, August 17, 2025 at 6:00 P.M. at the Lakes Funeral Home 1181 Main Street South,
McKee, Kentucky 40447
Funeral service Monday August 18, 2025 2:00 P.M. at Lakes Funeral Home 1181 Main Street South,
McKee, Ky. 40447
Officiating ministers will be Bro. Gerald Maupin and Bro. Brian Gabbard. Burial will follow the service in Goforth Family Cemetery.
PALLBEARERS: Eugene Goforth, Lynn Goforth, Dave Wilds, Jared Goforth, Peyton Hacker, Kenlee Hacker, Peyton Gabbard, and Corey Miller.
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