After a protracted battle with cancer, Denise Goff died on October 21 in Stockett at the age of 61, and the community is remembering her joyful spirit and mourning her passing.
Goff, a teacher and aide at Centerville School, was born in Great Falls and quickly developed a passion for education and caring for children. In 1997, Denise began her 24-year journey at Centerville school working with the kids she cared so much for. During these years, her welcoming spirit and smile followed her everywhere she went, along with her recess whistle and her desire to put a book in every child’s hand.
In 2016, she was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma, a rare type of cancer that forms in the bile ducts between the liver and the small intestine. During her four year battle, she remained iron-willed and determined to help her students as much as possible. She continued to come to school every day, up until her passing last week, to be with those kids that meant so much to her.
Ladybugs were her favorite. Her office is still filled with hundreds of ladybug trinkets and students at recess would always bring her ladybugs to show. So to honor her memory, students and faculty at Centerville School have filled their hallways and classrooms with handmade ladybugs. Each ladybug brings back a memory of her bright smile and the legacy she left on this school and community.
In addition to her work at Centerville School, was a cherished wife, mother of three, and community leader. She was responsible for many holiday meals and other community events. Those who knew her, say she will be greatly missed and hope she’s flying high with her ladybugs.
To read her complete obituary and share condolences, visit the Schnider Funeral Home website.
