Willie Sue Gosnell's Obituary
Willie Sue Gosnell, a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on November 19, 2025, at the Rapides Regional Medical Center in Alexandria, Louisiana, after an extended illness. She was born on July 18, 1943, in Pelican, Louisiana, and lived a life filled with purpose, faith, and unwavering love for those around her.
Willie Sue is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harold Gosnell, with whom she shared 61 wonderful years of marriage. She was also preceded in death by her father, James Presley Goodman; her mother, Hannah Drucilla Webb; and her brothers, Huey Goodman, Ellis Clyde Goodman, and James William “Buddy” Goodman.
She is survived by her sister, Lois Minyard of Ozark, Arkansas; brothers Danny Goodman and wife Sheila Cangelose Goodman of Grand Cane, Louisiana, and Carl Goodman of Shreveport, Louisiana; sister-in-law Mazie Goodman of Stonewall, Louisiana; and a host of nieces and nephews who cherished her dearly. Willie Sue also shared a special bond with her best friend, Virginia Jackson, with whom she enjoyed nearly 50 years of friendship. Moreover, her church family, whom she loved immensely, will miss her presence and the warmth she brought to their community.
A true Proverbs 31 woman, Willie Sue exemplified faithfulness and commitment, always ensuring that God was first in her life. She had a deep love for reading Christian fiction, yet she held herself accountable, knowing that her time with God was paramount. Her quiet strength and deep convictions were evident to all who knew her. While initially meek, those who spent time with her were blessed by her sharp sense of wit and that radiant smile that lit up her face.
Willie Sue was a gifted homemaker, known for her exceptional baking skills, particularly her famous strawberry bundt cakes and irresistible red velvet cake, which were staples at church events. A humble seamstress, she often downplayed her talents, but others marvelled at the beautiful creations that came from her hands.
Her love for organization earned her the affectionate title of “Spreadsheet Queen.” Long before the digital age, she created meticulous ledgers, and she continued to refine her skills, making spreadsheets for every aspect of her life.
In her working years, she opened her home to care for children, loving them as if they were her own. Though Willie Sue was never blessed with biological children, she poured her heart into the little ones around her, earning their adoration—especially when she allowed them to ride her rollator.
Music played a special role in Willie Sue’s life; she skillfully played both the piano and accordion, always with a towel draped modestly over her lap. Her dedication to her church was evident in her service as a Sunday School teacher and as the former church secretary, where her contributions helped shape the church community she cherished so deeply.
In her later years, Willie Sue devotedly cared for her husband, Harold, reflecting a Christ-like love and faithfulness that inspired all who observed their relationship.
Willie Sue Gosnell leaves behind a rich legacy of prayer, kindness, and quiet strength. Her life was a testament to the power of faith and service, and though she will be deeply missed, her spirit will continue to touch the lives of those she leaves behind.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 23, 2025, at Hope Springs United Pentecostal Church at 197 Alexandria Hwy., Leesville, Louisiana, from 2:00 PM until the time of the service.
A funeral service in her honor will be held on November 23, 2025, at 4:00 PM at the Hope Springs United Pentecostal Church under the direction of Rev. Wesley S. Manning, Rev. Steven Bishop and Rev. Billie Jean Bishop. Friends and family are invited to celebrate her life and the love she shared with so many.
In loving memory of Willie Sue, may we all strive to embody her spirit of kindness, prayerfulness, and unwavering faith.
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