Martha Iris Goodman

Martha Iris (Gill) Goodman, 98 of Beeville, Texas passed away peacefully on February 7, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on July 27, 1926, in Beeville, Martha Iris was a cherished member of the community throughout her long and vibrant life. She was the daughter of the late Truman Milam and Martha (Smith) Gill.

Martha Iris was a graduate of Baylor University and met her future husband there and married the love of her life, Jimmy Goodman, in 1948 and together they built a life filled with love, laughter and numerous adventures. They were blessed with three children, Martha Ileene, James and Jennifer. They were her pride and joy.

Martha Iris was known for her warm smile, her positive energy and a great sense of humor. Her dedication extended to being a member of numerous civic organizations, Rosetta Club, Order of the Eastern Star, Daughters of the American Revolution and Daughters of the Republic of Texas to name a few. She was a life-long member of the First Presbyterian Church of Beeville becoming a member at the young age of eight.

Professionally, Martha Iris was a businesswoman and rancher, being an owner, managing partner and President of the Beeville Coca Cola Bottling Company and Gill Ranch. Philanthropically, she supported many causes anonymously throughout her life.

In her later years, she enjoyed traveling and spending time with her grandchildren while sharing rich stories, letters and documents from her ancestors' journey to Texas.

Martha Iris was a lover of animals and had numerous dogs as additional family members throughout her life.

Martha Iris is survived by her children, Martha Ileene Dugat (Sidney), James Goodman, III (Laurel) and Jennifer Goodman; her grandchildren, Jennifer LeBourveau, Kyle Wilkerson (Christy), Lamar Wilkerson, James Goodman, IV (Mackenzie) and Parker Goodman; and her great-grandson, Elliott Wilkerson.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy Goodman; and her brothers, Truman Flournoy Gill and Leon Lamar Gill along with infant twins and Laura Elaine Goodman, twin sister to Jennifer Goodman.

A private service to celebrate her life will be held for family and close friends in the coming days and will be officiated by the Rev. Dr. Chip Blackshear, Senior Pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Corpus Christi. Martha Iris Goodman will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of kindness, community service and love for her family will live on in the hearts of those she touched.