A Life of Glory: Reflections on the Reverend Doctor James Goodwin Jr.

On Thursday, December 6th, 2007, Heaven called home its' faithful servant, pastor and friend, the Reverend Doctor James Franklin Goodwin Jr. A man of calm strength and blessed with the gift of bringing the joy of the Lord to all he encountered, James Goodwin found happiness ministering to congregations at home and abroad. His warm baritone singing voice warmed the hearts of many and often he was seen shaking hands urging others to join in. His great presence and impeccable character distinguished Reverend Goodwin as a man of God even before a word was spoken. A compelling speaker, Reverend Goodwin, touched the souls of many with his powerful sermons and messages of wisdom. Even in his final days, he could be seen serving the Lord by writing teachings and words of inspiration with his journal that never left his side.

A native of Edgeville, South Carolina, James Goodwin was born to parents, Aminee and James Goodwin, on December 25, 1926. He attended high school in the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools and after completing his studies served in the United States Army during World War II. Upon receiving his calling of ministry at the young age of 24, Reverend Goodwin studied at Hood Seminary, Teamon School of Religious Studies and later received a Masters Degree in Theology from Livingston College. Reverend Goodwin's ministry served church families at Reynolds Temple CME Church Winston-Salem, NC, Calvary CME Church New York, NY, Mt. Olive Christian Church Concord, NC, Logan Chapel Charlotte, NC and Langford Chapel Monroe, NC. He also served as an educator and lecturer at Winston Salem Bible College and John Wesley Christian College. During his tenure as presiding Elder, Reverend Goodwin worked tenaciously to extend the reach of the CME mission and traveled abroad to spread God's message as far as London and Africa.

Graciously waiting to welcome him home are his mother and father, James and Aminee, as well as, his two sisters, Ora Mae and Anne Ethel, and brother Willie.

A devout father and friend, James was always accompanied by his beautiful wife of over 55 years, Mrs. Eula Mae Goodwin. She remains to carry on his loving mission along with their daughter Debra Goodwin Davis (Earl); granddaughter, Nicole Davis of Winton-Salem, and host of nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

Funeral services will be held at 2 pm on Wednesday, December 12, 2007 at Hanes Memorial CME Church. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery. Family visitation will be held from 1 pm until 2 pm Wednesday at the church.