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Wanneta Jean
Goehl
February 4, 1935 – April 5, 2026
Wanneta Jean Goehl, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2026, in College Station, Texas. Born on February 4, 1935, in Hannibal, Missouri, Wanneta's life was marked by unwavering devotion to her family, faith, and community.
Raised in and around Quincy, Illinois, Wanneta graduated from Palmyra High School in 1952. In 1962, in pursuit of a better opportunity, she relocated with her husband, Russel Fredrick Goehl, their three young children, and another on the way to Bryan, Texas. This courageous move embodied her steadfast belief that with effort, hard work, and faith in God's protection, all things are possible. Wanneta’s strength, instilled by the values of her upbringing, carried her through life’s challenges without complaint; even in later years, amid the pains of aging, she maintained a quiet resilience, often saying, “I am ok, nothing hurts.”
A woman of profound and complete internal faith, Wanneta was an active, devoted member of Saint Joseph Catholic Church. It was rare for a Sunday to pass without her family attending church together, a testament to her commitment to raising her children within those spiritual principles. She embodied a confidence not in physical proof but in the steadfast presence of God. Her faith radiated in her daily life, influencing always to think the best of others, forgiving swiftly and wisely, with no room for grudges or idle gossip.
Her home was a welcoming sanctuary where friends and family never left hungry. Whether entertaining company or simply gathering with loved ones, Wanneta cooked generously, ensuring all were well cared for. Her children fondly recall not only her delicious meals—chicken strips and French fries were a favorite—but also the loving attention she showed to their friends, whom she treated as her own children.
As a mother, she raised five children—Russel Goehl, Thomas Goehl, Jeff Goehl, Susan Gibson, and the late Carol Ann Ambrose—with quiet confidence and no-nonsense wisdom. Her proudest accomplishment was unquestionably nurturing her children into successful adults while providing support to her husband. A cherished memory for her son Russel is learning to drive under her watchful and careful guidance, her voice still echoing in his mind, advising safety at every turn. Susan remembers her mother’s readiness to delight grandchildren and visitors alike, always prepared with their favorite candies and treats.
Wanneta’s twin sister, Wanda Bockhold, along with her sister Linda Boden and brother Johnny Williams, shared a lifelong close bond with her; their families remained intertwined through many shared experiences and celebrations. Together with her nine grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, Wanneta’s legacy of love, faith, and resilience endures.
Her hobbies included playing bridge, entertaining guests, square dancing, traveling, shopping, and visiting family, all pursued with the same enthusiasm and kindness that defined her character.
She was preceded in death by her husband Russel Fredrick Goehl, daughter Carol Ann Ambrose, and her parents, Cecil and Ruth Williams.
The family will honor Wanneta’s memory with a visitation on April 12, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Callaway-Jones Funeral Home and Crematory located at 3001 S College Ave, Bryan, Texas. This will be followed by a burial at Restever Memorial Park Cemetery at 5103 North Texas Avenue, Bryan, Texas.
Wanneta's life was one of enduring faith, steadfast love, and generous spirit. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, devotion, and grace that will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and warmly remembered by her family, friends, and community.
Callaway-Jones Funeral Home And Crematory
4:00 - 5:00 pm (Central time)
Restever Memorial Park Cemetery
Starts at 5:30 pm (Central time)
Visits: 686
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