CALHOUN COUNTY, ILLINOIS — June 15, 2025 — With hearts full of sorrow and love, the Calhoun County community mourns the tragic and untimely passing of Caroline Goode, a beloved young woman whose vibrant spirit, infectious smile, and boundless kindness left an enduring imprint on everyone she met. Affectionately known by many as “Sweet Caroline,” her presence was a gift—an embodiment of joy, compassion, and authenticity that illuminated even the darkest days.
Caroline’s passing has sent shockwaves through Calhoun County, a place where she was more than just a familiar face—she was a bright light, a friend to all, and a living reminder of the beauty of kindness in its purest form. Her unexpected departure has left a profound void not only in the hearts of her grieving family and friends but also in the fabric of the community she cherished and helped uplift.
Born on September 29, 2004, Caroline was just 20 years old. In her short time on Earth, she lived with a passion and purpose that many spend a lifetime trying to achieve. She was a proud graduate of Calhoun High School, where she excelled not only in academics but also as an active participant in student leadership, FFA, and various volunteer organizations. Her peers admired her for her genuine spirit, unshakable positivity, and natural ability to lift others up—often putting their needs ahead of her own.
Caroline was deeply rooted in her faith and family. Raised in a close-knit home where love, laughter, and faith were guiding lights, she carried those values with her into every space she entered. Her parents, Michael and Donna Goode, instilled in her a strong moral compass, a love for service, and an appreciation for life’s simple joys—sunsets over the river, bonfires with friends, and heartfelt conversations that turned strangers into lifelong companions.
Those who knew Caroline often speak of her unique gift to make others feel seen and loved. Whether it was a handwritten note of encouragement, a warm hug during a tough day, or her signature laugh that echoed with warmth and sincerity, Caroline had a way of making the world feel a little more gentle. Her friendships were deep and lasting, rooted in loyalty and genuine care.
She had dreams that stretched far beyond the boundaries of Calhoun County. Caroline was pursuing her education in early childhood development, driven by a heartfelt desire to nurture and teach the next generation. Her love for children, paired with her gentle nature and joyful spirit, made her a natural in every daycare classroom or Sunday school setting she served in. Her goal was never fame or fortune—it was to leave the world better than she found it, one smile and one small act of kindness at a time.
Caroline is survived by her loving parents, Michael and Donna Goode; her older brother, Dylan Goode, and his fiancée Megan; her grandparents, Gerald and Elaine Goode and Roger and Susan Carter; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and a wide circle of devoted friends who cherished her deeply. Each of them carries with them the enduring gift of her memory—a reminder to live with love, to laugh often, and to give freely.
A celebration of Caroline’s life will take place on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at St. Norbert’s Catholic Church in Hardin, Illinois, with Father Tom Langer officiating. Visitation will be held on Friday evening, June 20, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Gress, Kallal, and Schaaf Funeral Home in Hardin. All who knew and loved Caroline are invited to attend, share memories, and honor the remarkable light she was.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the Caroline Goode Memorial Scholarship Fund, benefiting students pursuing careers in education and early childhood development.
As Calhoun County gathers in collective grief, we also unite in gratitude for the time we were given with “Sweet Caroline.” Though her journey ended far too soon, her legacy of love, grace, and light will continue to bloom in the hearts of those she inspired. She lived fully, loved deeply, and gave generously—and that is how she will be remembered.
“There are some who bring a light so great to the world, that even after they are gone, the light remains.”