Obituary of Leokadia Gougeon

Leokadia Gougeon, 75, of Freehold Township, passed away on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at CentraState Medical Center in Freehold Township. Born in Munich, Germany, she immigrated to the United States in 1951, initially settling in Fords, and then raising her family in Edison before moving to Freehold Township in 1993.

Lee had a distinguished 42-year career in the airline industry, serving as a flight attendant for Eastern Air Lines and later American Airlines until her retirement in 2014. Her career allowed her to travel the world extensively. In her retirement, she remained active in the aviation community as a member of the Kiwi Club, a social and charitable organization for flight attendants.  Prior to becoming a flight attendant, Lee was one of the first Clinique Girls at Bamberger’s in the Menlo Park Mall.  She also enjoyed visiting Atlantic City and found great joy in "retail therapy."

She was predeceased by her husband, Joseph Gougeon and her parents, Alex and Nadzieda Niepiejn.  Lee is survived by her son, Anthony Balletta of Freehold Township, daughter, Nadine Brescher and her husband, Scott of Colonia; her sisters, Taisa Niepiejn and Regina Kayla and her husband, Thomas; her nieces and nephews; and her faithful feline companion, Smokey. 

Visitation will be held at the Clayton & McGirr Funeral Home, 100 Elton-Adelphia Road (Route 524), Freehold Township on Monday, March 2, 2026 from 9:00 to 11:00 AM with an 11:00 AM funeral service.  Entombment will follow in St. Gabriel’s Cemetery & Chapel Mausoleum, 549 Route 520, Marlboro.  For those who desire, memorial contributions in Lee’s name may be made to Monmouth County SPCA, 260 Wall Street, Eatontown, NJ 07724.  For information, directions or to leave condolence messages for the family, visit www.claytonfuneralhome.com