Gary Winston Goodwin

SOPHIA — Gary Winston Goodwin, 83, of Sophia, NC, passed on Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, at The Randolph Hospice House. 

He was born Sept. 28, 1942, in Norfolk, Virginia, the son of the late George “Bill” William Goodwin and Margaret Lee Goodwin. 
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, David Lee Goodwin, and a brother-in-law, Norman B. Thurow.

Gary’s mother and other family members played a significant role in his young upbringing while his dad served in the U.S. Navy during WWII. As a youth, Gary actively participated in athletics, especially baseball. He graduated from Greensboro Grimsley High School in the class of 1960. 

Then he pursued higher education at Mars Hill College, where he earned a BS in Business Administration in 1964. While attending Mars Hill, he showcased his leadership as editor-in-chief of the Laurel Annual (1964 edition) and was a dedicated member of the track team, an Intramural Manager and involved in many other college activities.

Gary was very proud of his first car, a blue GTO convertible.

Gary entered the professional world, establishing a long and rewarding career with Jefferson Pilot in Greensboro, where he was manager of the Policyowners Service Department. After 32 years of service, he retired while maintaining close connections with his colleagues.

Upon retirement, Gary traded his suits and ties for T-shirts and shorts. An enthusiast of the outdoors, Gary took immense pride in maintaining his eight-acre yard. He spent countless hours tending to his flower beds, mulching and mowing, ensuring every piece of outdoor art was carefully selected to enhance the beauty of his landscape.

His love for nature extended to the golf course, where he found joy in the game, and to the mountains of North Carolina, where he frequently sought sightseeing adventures. 

He was also a lover of music, often attending concerts of his favorite country singers and bluegrass festivals. His appreciation for artistry led him to explore antique shops and pottery galleries, collecting pieces that added charm to his home.

Gary delighted in watching the Yankees, Duke games and golf tournaments. “Live, Laugh and Love” were the cornerstones of Gary’s life.

Gary frequented his favorite booth at Jed’s, conversing with his friends and even picking up the tab of a stranger. The company of his two dogs, the late Bandit and Meica, brought him great happiness, as they were his faithful canine companions.

Left to cherish his memory are his sisters, Judy Carol Thurow, and Susan Goodwin Webb and husband Alden; sister-in-law, Janeen Goodwin; nieces, Meredith W. Haslam (James), Allison Goodwin, and Shelby Willoughby (Richard); nephews, Benjamin Webb (Stacey), Geoffrey Thurow (Katy) and Brian Thurow; and a of host of beloved family and friends.
A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.

The family would like to thank his wonderful neighbors, Clapp’s Rehabilitation Staff (especially Tyler Speagle), the staff of Randolph Hospital, The Randolph Hospice House, and his friend Nancy Powell.