Columbia Community Honors Beloved Educator Francy Goodrich

Columbia, October 10, 2025

News Summary

The Columbia community is gathering to honor the memory of Miriam Frances Fenzel Goodrich, a beloved educator and volunteer who touched countless lives. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place, allowing friends and family to pay their respects. Known for her dedication to education and her impactful community involvement, Francy leaves behind a legacy of love and service.

Columbia Community Comes Together to Honor Miriam Frances Fenzel Goodrich

The city of Columbia is mourning the loss of a beloved member of its community, Miriam Frances Fenzel Goodrich, who passed away at the age of 78 on October 3, 2025. Francy, as she was fondly known, was not only a dedicated educator but also an active volunteer who touched the lives of countless individuals throughout her years of service.

A Farewell Ceremony

The community is invited to pay their respects at a Mass of Christian Burial set for Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 1:00 pm at Saint Joseph Catholic Church, located at 3512 Devine Street. The interment will take place in the Columbarium, and afterwards, everyone is welcome to gather for a reception in the Ministries Building.

Before the funeral, a Rosary and Visitation is scheduled for Monday, October 13, from 5:00-7:00 pm at Dunbar Funeral Home, at 3926 Devine Street. This will provide an opportunity for family and friends to come together during this difficult time.

A Life Well Lived

Miriam Frances Fenzel Goodrich was born in Augsburg, Bavaria, West Germany, to parents Hugh Francis Fenzel and Miriam Marshall Fenzel. When she was just 18 months old, Francy moved to Columbia, SC, where she would go on to create a fulfilling life. Tragically, she was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Hugh Francis “Buddy” Fenzel.

Proudly carrying the torch of family, Francy leaves behind her husband of 55 years, Edward Lynn Goodrich, as well as their four children: Dell Goodrich, Rebecca Seezen (with husband Michael), Elizabeth Goodrich, and Charlie Goodrich (with partner Jimmy). She was also a cherished grandmother to four grandchildren: James Seezen, Marshall Seezen, Jack Seezen, and Eliza Comer.

Education and Career

Francy was an inspiring educator who dedicated 25 years to teaching in Lexington Richland 5 and Richland 1, culminating in her retirement after 9 years at Saint Joseph Catholic School. She earned her BA in Special and Elementary Education from Columbia College in 1969, paving the way for a remarkable teaching career.

Her commitment to education extended beyond the classroom. As a member of the national teacher sorority, Alpha Delta Kappa, she demonstrated her dedication to improving educational practices and supporting her fellow educators.

Community Involvement

Francy was deeply engaged in her community, helping to establish volunteer service placements with the Junior League of Columbia at the Babcock Center. She served on both the PTO Board and School Board while her children attended Saint Joseph Catholic School, and her impact could be felt even further as she led Brownie and Girl Scout troops and coached cheerleading.

Her devotion to Saint Joseph Church was evident through her active participation on the Parish Council, Ecumenical Committee, and teaching CCD. She served as a Eucharistic Minister, living out her faith in service to others.

In recognition of her contributions, Francy was awarded the Grandparent of the Year award from Saint Joseph School and Church in 2016. She added so much joy to her family’s lives, especially relishing her role as “Mimi” for her grandchildren.

Her Legacy

Francy cherished her time spent shopping, enjoying lunch with friends, and caring for her pets: Sabrina, Tucker, Cam, and Sparky. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. William Merritt and South Carolina Oncology Associates for their support, as well as to Prisma Health Hospice, particularly Kendall Harris and Carmella White, for their compassionate care during her final days.

For those wishing to honor her memory, memorial contributions may be made to Saint Joseph Catholic Church or the Animal Mission of the Midlands.

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Additional Resources

• Frances Goodrich Obituary
• Wikipedia: Columbia, South Carolina
• Frederick Perry Obituary
• Google Search: Miriam Frances Fenzel Goodrich
• Frances Goodrich Memorial Page
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Community
• Frederick Perry Memorial Page
• Google News: Columbia Community
• Frances Goodrich Biography
• Google Scholar: Educators in Columbia SC

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