Sammie Goff

Sammie J. Goff, 91, of Little Rock, died Thursday, Oct. 7, surrounded by her family.

A beloved matriarch — mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother and aunt — she was devoted to her family and inspired their devotion to her. Witty, warm and congenial, a snappy dresser, a lively dancer, a sharp bridge player, and an avid Razorback fan, Sammie led a full life among a wide circle of friends and loved ones.

Several generations of Little Rock parents knew her as “the baby picture lady”; those who have First Foto newborn portraits from area hospitals in the 70s, 80s and 90s most likely procured them through her. She loved visiting the new mothers and getting the best possible photos of the babies.

Born June 24, 1930, in Greenbrier, Ark., she was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 58 years, John C. Goff; their son Ron Pendleton; and her sister, Mary Jo Sisco.

Sammie is survived by her children John D. Goff and Dana Goff Loyd of Little Rock and Leslie Jaye Goff of New York City; daughter-in-law Katie Pendleton of Alexander, Ark.; grandchildren Mark Krizman (Stacy), John Pendleton (Sheila), Cheryl Covill, Debra King, Kristi Gotherman (John), Abby Youngbauer (Andrew), Amy Loyd, Gregory Loyd and Mary Loyd (who served selflessly as her live-in caregiver the last two years); 19 great-grandchildren; 14 great-great-grandchildren; and seven nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Arkansas Children’s Hospital would be appreciated.