Esther Marie Goodson, 76, of Bedias, Texas, passed away on July 5, 2026, in College Station, Texas. She was born on February 17, 1950, to Alvin Cronin and Elsie Leaser in Tomball, Texas.

Esther was a talented cook and pastry chef, dedicating many years to the food service industry. Her love for baking and cooking went beyond mere profession; it was an expression of her love for family and friends. Esther's kitchen was always a gathering place, filled not just with delicious aromas but also with laughter and joy. Her passion for food was only matched by her unwavering commitment to her loved ones. A proud member of Steel Magnolias, she embraced her community with open arms, frequently volunteering her time and energy to help others, often putting their needs above her own.

Esther was preceded in death by both of her parents; first husband, Albert Mack Gardner; second husband, Billy Joe Goodson; brothers, Alvin Douglas Cronin and Tommy Parker; and son-in-law, David Jones. She is survived by her son, Michael Gardner (Angie) of Cotulla, Texas; daughter, Meredith Crowder (David) of Magnolia, Texas and Amy Gardner of Bedias, Texas; grandchildren, Michael II, Emerald, Krystal, Matthew, Joey, Rebecca, and Awn're; twenty-two great-grandchildren; and sisters, Brenda House of Cotulla, Texas and Beverly Bryant (Bobby) of Crosby, Texas.

A funeral service for Esther will be 10 A.M., Monday, July 13, 2026, at Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas. Bro. Jerry Allen Cole will officiate the service. Interment will follow in Bedias Baptist Cemetery, Bedias, Texas. Visitation will be from 9 A.M. until time of the service.

Arrangements are under the direction of Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas -- A Walters Family Funeral Home.