Shally Ann Stickels, 64, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2026, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital with her children by her side.

Born on November 26, 1961, in Paxton, Illinois, Shally was the daughter of Bill and Twylla (Farney) Beer. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Jerry Beer.

Shally is survived by the love of her life of 23 years, Charles Gooden, Jr., and their beloved dog, Sasha. She is also survived by her son, Tylor Combs, and granddaughter, Abigail Combs; daughter, Brandi (Brian Goodwin) Hobbs, and granddaughters, Aubreyana Thompson and Ella Goodwin. She is further survived by her siblings, Joe (Connie) Beer, Sonia Zbinden, Betty (Bronston) Wilson, Ron (Cara) Beer, and Scott (Debbie) Beer, along with many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Shally worked for more than 25 years at Meats Plus in Loda, Illinois, where she was known for her dedication, dependability, and strong work ethic. She believed in working hard, helping others, and doing what needed to be done, values she proudly passed on to her children and grandchildren.

A two-time cancer survivor, Shally faced life’s challenges with remarkable strength, courage, and determination. Through every battle she remained a source of comfort, support, and encouragement for those around her.

Her greatest joy in life was her family. She loved gathering with family and friends, especially at the lake, her favorite place to relax and make memories. Whether she was enjoying time on the water, sharing laughs around a gathering, tending her flowers and garden, working in the yard, or enjoying a good cold beverage with those she loved. Shally found happiness in life’s simple moments.

She was a devoted Nana who rarely missed an opportunity to support her grandchildren in their activities and accomplishments. From games and performances to everyday moments, she showed up with love, encouragement, and pride. She made sure her family always felt cared for and knew they were loved.

Known for her welcoming spirit, generous heart, and willingness to help anyone in need, Shally was a rock for her family and a friend to many. Her strength, kindness, laughter, and unwavering love leave a legacy that will continue to live on through all who were fortunate enough to know her.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Donations in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a cancer research organization of the donor’s choice in honor of Shally’s courageous battles with cancer. 

POEM:                                                                God’s Garden

God looked around His garden
And He found an empty place.
And then He looked down upon the earth,
And saw your tired face.

He put His arms around you,
And lifted you to rest.
God’s garden must be beautiful
He always takes the best.

He knew that you were suffering,
He knew you were in pain,
He knew that you would never
Get well on earth again.

He saw the road was getting rough,
And the hills were hard to climb,
So He closed your weary eyelids,
And whispered, “Peace be thine.”

It broke our hearts to lose you.
But you didn’t go alone,
For part of us went with you,
The day God called you home.