Jamie Elafros (nee Goodman), 43, born on August 1, 1983, in Belleville, IL, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at home surrounded by her family in O’Fallon, IL.
Jamie was a loving wife and mother who treasured time with her family. She loved playing soccer with the boys and was an avid fan of the sport. Staying active was important to her, whether she was running, walking, or playing pickleball. She was always ready for a day of shopping and the search for a new pair of shoes. She and Mike enjoyed planning adventures and trips for the boys. She loved exploring new places, especially tropical destinations, and big cities. Knowing how much her boys enjoyed a sweet treat she often baked for them. They also shared her love of ice cream and the fun of discovering new places in search of the perfect treat.
Jamie’s selflessness made school social work a natural calling. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and later a master’s degree in social work from Saint Louis University. After beginning her career in Tuscola, Illinois, she returned to O’Fallon and joined Edwardsville Community Unit School District 7. Over the years, she supported and guided children from many backgrounds, firmly believing that every child mattered and deserved the attention they needed. Her dedication extended beyond the school day, and she never passed up an opportunity to help. A respected leader, she was deeply admired and loved by her coworkers.
After returning in 2016, Jamie met her soulmate, Mike. They married and started a family, and her “three boys” became the center of her life. She embraced being a boy mom and loved every moment. Although she enjoyed shopping and new clothes, she was just as happy dressing down and joining in whatever her boys wanted to do. She was always on the sidelines cheering them on in soccer, baseball, golf, Ninja Warrior, or any other activity, and she will forever be their number one fan. The family could often be found changing flowers and seasonal decorations together. Decorating the house and choosing the perfect Christmas tree were especially important to her. Nothing brought her more joy than seeing her boys smile. Thankfully, photographs captured many of these treasured moments, allowing others to share the wonderful times Jamie and her family enjoyed.
Jamie meant so much to so many that no summary could fully capture who she was. She led by example, welcomed everyone as a friend, and always saw the good in others. Outgoing, adventurous, and eager to help, she faced every challenge with unmatched strength. Jamie was an inspiration to all who loved her. We will carry the lessons she taught us forever in our hearts. Above all, she taught us to choose JOY, even in the most difficult times.
Even as she faced triple-negative breast cancer, Jamie remained focused on others. She hoped that what could be learned from her experience would deepen understanding of the disease, help others, and ultimately lead to a cure.
Jamie was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Helene and Kenneth Goodman, and maternal grandmother, Pat Bleisch.
Left to cherish Jamie’s memory are her beloved husband Michael Elafros of O’Fallon, IL; their two children, Jack and Benjamin Elafros of O’Fallon, IL; her parents Sue Goodman (Ken Baker) of Fairview Heights, IL; Jerry Goodman (Susan Lukavsky) of Belleville, IL, and her brother, Josh Goodman (Liz Vegovisch) of Fairview Heights, IL; grandfather, Clete Bleish of O’Fallon, IL; father-in-law, Tim Elafros of O’Fallon, IL and mother-in-law Jeanne McCleery (Paul) of Lebanon, IL; in-laws, John Elafros (Carrie Closterman) of O’Fallon, IL, Erin (Keith) Shovlin of O’Fallon, IL, Timmy (Andie Mendina) Elafros of Chandler, AZ; niece, Halloran Shovlin, nephew, Eli Shovlin. Loved by many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
A visitation will take place on Friday, October 16, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., at Schildknecht Funeral Home; 301 S. Lincoln Ave., O’Fallon, IL 62269.
Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., at Holy Trinity Catholic Church; 505 Fountains Pkwy, Fairview Heights, IL 62208.
Burial will take place at O’Fallon City Cemetery in O’Fallon, IL.
Memorial donations may be made in Jamie’s name to the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation; https://tnbcfoundation.org/support-us/donate. Condolences may be made online at www.schildknechtfh.com.
Local arrangements have been entrusted to Schildknecht Funeral Home.