Laura V. Gooden, 96

DOVER - Laura V. Gooden, formerly of Milford, passed away Thursday, July 16, 2009, in Courtland Manor Nursing & Convalescent Home. She was 96. Mrs. Gooden was born on November 18, 1912 in Henderson, Maryland, daughter of the late William R. and Ruth (McMullen) Stubbs. She owned and operated Gooden's Floral Shop along with her husband, Winfred, opening the shop in 1946 and remaining in the floral business for 26 years, retiring in 1972. The shop remains in operation today under the management of Mrs. Gooden's son and daughter-in-law, Jim and Lora. Laura enjoyed playing bingo and bowling was a great cook and always loved being surrounded by beautiful flowers. She was a member of the Avenue United Methodist Church in Milford. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Gooden was preceded in death by her husband, Winfred C. Gooden in 1993; a brother, Norman Stubbs and a daughter-in-law, Deborah K. Gooden. She is survived by two sons and a daughter-in-law, James and Lora Gooden of Milford and Joseph W. Gooden of Virginia Beach, VA; eight grandchildren; Sean Gooden, Jayne Gooden, Matthew Gooden, Michael Gooden, Michelle Homan Ward, Rachel Gooden, Miriam Jakobitz and Rebecca Gooden; and 26 great grandchildren. A Graveside Service was held on Monday, July 20, 2009 at the Milford Community Cemetery on North Walnut Street. Interment followed the service. Letters of condolences may be emailed at www.delmarvaobits.com/rogers Arrangements handled by Rogers Funeral Home, Milford.