Rachel L. Goetsch

Rachel Lynn Goetsch, 75, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, aunt and devoted servant of the Lord, was called home on Friday, January 16th, 2025, at her home in Hot Springs, SD. Rachel was born on September 26, 1950, in Malvern, AR to Elsie "Marion" (Andrews) & Gilbert Rice Johnson. She is now reunited with the love of her life and partner in ministry, Rev. Leslie Wayne Goetsch, who preceded her in death.

Rachel is survived by her two dear sons, Shad Goetsch (Claudia) of Palm Beach, FL and Jason Goetsch (Ivy) of Hot Springs, SD; her precious wonderful daughter, Jerusha Jones (Mark) of Edgemont, SD; three grandchildren, Garrett Wayne Jones, Jessamine Rose Jones, and Portia Sophia Goetsch; and her brother, Aaron "Sonny Boy" Johnson of Friendship, AR; and many nieces and nephews.

Though she faced seasons of profound hardship, her spirit remained unbroken. Rachel's life was defined by faith and  service. She stood faithfully beside her husband, Les, as a true partner in ministry. Together, they poured their hearts into their congregations and communities, creating a legacy of love, compassion and spiritual guidance. It was a lifelong commitment of true love, devotion, and loyalty to one another and their Lord.

Beyond her ministry, Rachel was a vibrant soul brimming with life, love, and laughter—a woman who truly never met a stranger. She possessed a spirited competitiveness that shone brightest while "partnering" with her son, Jason, to beat him at pickleball, or while cheering fiercely for her children and grandchildren at their many events. Whether it was a "mostly friendly" game of Skip-Bo or dominos, Rachel played to win. Yet, her greatest joy was pouring her time into others. She famously channeled this love into baking, using her legendary pies as delicious "bribes" for help or sweet excuses to chat. For nearly a decade, "Mrs. Goetsch" substitute taught at Hot Springs Schools, where she mentored a generation in the finer arts of obtaining a hall pass. Above all, she adored her grandchildren—Garrett Wayne, Jessamine Rose, and Portia Sophia—who remained the true lights of her life.

Rachel's time here was far too short, yet her legacy endures through her beloved family and the community she so wonderfully and faithfully served.

Preceded in death by: her husband; her parents; brother, Boyd Johnson; and son-in-law, Jack Lee Gulzow Jr.

A visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Friday, January 23rd, 2026, at Chamberlain McColley's Funeral Home in Hot Springs, SD.   Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 24th, 2026, at United Churches in Hot Springs, SD, with the Rev. Patterson officiating. Committal service will be held 11:00 a.m., Monday, January 26, 2026 at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis, SD.

A memorial has been established to further Christian Ministry in Hot Springs.

Arrangements are under the direction of Chamberlain McColley's Funeral Home.  An online guestbook is available at www.mccolleyschapels.com