Dr. Elsie Goodwyn Holland

Dr. Elsie Goodwyn Holland

Elsie Holland Obituary

Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch on Dec. 3, 2008.
HOLLAND, Dr. Elsie Goodwyn, 73, of 1609 Westwood Ave., Richmond, Va., peacefully transitioned from this earthly life early Sunday morning, November 30, 2008 at St. Mary's Hospital. She was born July 18, 1935 to the late William H. Goodwyn Sr. and Etta R. Goodwyn. Her formative years were spent in the small town of McKenney, Va. (Dinwiddie, County) and, at an early age, Elsie confessed Christ and became a member of the Big Bethel Baptist Church. Even as a child, Elsie was very outspoken and exhibited leadership skills which laid a foundation for a fulfilling life, laden with numerous milestones and noteworthy events. She was a matriarch and self-proclaimed "trailblazer/trendsetter" in many arenas, and can be best summarized as a Passionate Educator, Politician/Civic Activist and Family Advocate. Elsie was a strong supporter and advocate of family values. She had strong ties to her family and was affectionately know as "Baby Sis", "Baby", and "Auntie." She leaves to cherish her memory a loving husband, Kenneth G. Holland; dedicated mother, Etta R. Goodwyn; four devoted siblings, William H. Goodwyn Jr. (Beatrice), Gloria G. Harvell (J. Larry), Larry M. Goodwyn (Alice) and Deborah G. Morgan (Preston); one surviving aunt, France R. Hicks (Wilbert); and one uncle, Fred F. Ragsdale; one godson, James Flannagan III. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, December 5, 2008 at 11 a.m. at the Big Bethel Baptist Church, McKenney, with the pastor, Rev. A. L. Williams, officiating, and the Pastor Emeritus, Rev. Arlester Newsome Jr., eulogizing. Burial will commence at the Big Bethel Burial Park. Public viewing will be held on Thursday, December 4, 2008 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Flowers and/or monetary donations can be given in memory of Dr. Elsie G. Holland to Virginia State University Alumni Association, P.O. Box 2488, Petersburg, Va. 23806 or University of Virginia Alumni Association Alumni Hall, P.O. Box 400314, Charlottesville, Va. 22904. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Joseph M. Johnson & Son Funeral Home. (804)478-4411.
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

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March 6, 2009

Jacqueline Pastreck posted to the memorial.

December 17, 2008

Milton & Yvonne Jasper- Brown posted to the memorial.

December 10, 2008

Vincent/Marcus/Jamar Smith & Ashauni King posted to the memorial.

Jacqueline Pastreck

March 6, 2009

Kenneth-
I am so sorry to learn of the passing of your beloved Elsie. My prayers are with you. From all I've read, I know that Elsie was a remarkable lady who touched and influenced the lives of countless others. You were truly blessed to have had her as your life's partner for so many wonderful years. Cherish those memories. She is now with my aunt Novella, uncle Hurley and all my wonderful Holland/Suffolk, VA ancestors.

Milton & Yvonne Jasper- Brown

December 17, 2008

Dear Kenneth,
We're sorry to hear of the passing of your dear loved one,Elsie.I remember her first teaching position at the former Union Grove Elementary School in Chesterfield Co. where my mother the late Elizabeth Jasper was her princapal.I was still at VSU and Mom would always envision Elsie as going far in her field and she did. May you and your dear family find solace in knowing that God is our Comforter and fond memories will last forever.Many of my relatives in Powhatan Co. where you once worked send their sympathy also.

Vincent/Marcus/Jamar Smith & Ashauni King

December 10, 2008

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008

Angela / Kevin Graves - King

December 10, 2008

To the family know that she will be well missed as she was an inspiration to all. Know that we loved her but God loved her best. Sorrowfully, Cousin Angie (John B. Fisher's Great-Granddaughter / Granddaughter of Bessie Fisher Day). Know if you need anything please don't hesitate to call us.

Buck Stowers

December 9, 2008

Dear Ken,

Donna and I were saddened by Elsie's passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May the peace of GOD that passes all understanding give you comfort now and forever more.

Blessings,
Donna and Buck Stowers

Donald & Elayne Bass

December 8, 2008

Kenneth,
We were truly sadden upon leaning of Elsie's passing. We still have fond memories of CLIFF AVENUE.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Randolph Harrison

December 7, 2008

To Janice and Carolyn, I am sorry to hear of the passing your Auntie. My prayers and thought are with you and your families.

Glennis Chappelle

December 5, 2008

to the family of Dr. Holland,

Dr. Holland was my colleague at Thomas Henderson Middle School. She was full of energy and enjoyed life. May she rest in peace with our Lord.

Charles Ragsdale, Jr.

December 5, 2008

For my Aunt Etta, Cousins, William, Gloria, Larry, Deborah and Kenneth:

May the peace which comes from the memories of love shared, comfort you now and in the days ahead.

Kenneth Winfield

December 4, 2008

Gloria and all of the Goodwyn Family.

We want to express our sincere sympathy and let you know her special life will always be remember.

God us our refuge and strength. Psalm 46.1

Sincerely,
Kenny Winfield & Family

Enid Baskerville-Lindsay

December 4, 2008

Gloria, Larry and the Goodwyn Family
Sorry to hear the loss of Dr. Holland. May you find comfort in knowing there is a friend who shares your sorrow.

William and Margaret Parham

December 4, 2008

Gloria and Family:
May it comfort you to know that your loved one meant so much to so many people, and will always lived on it their hearts. My the Lord bless you and keep you and lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.

Janice Goodwyn Alridge

December 4, 2008

Uncle Kenneth,Pop,Aunt Gloria,Uncle Larry,D.D.- There were none like Auntie, definitely one-of-a-kind. I love her dearly and often wanted to be like her. Please know in your hearts that we will meet up with her again. Be strong and thank God every day for the times we shared together. She will be missed.

Jim Hassick

December 4, 2008

Larry,
Sorry to hear of your loss. We will be praying for you and your family at this time. Please let me know if you need anything.
Jim Hassick and family

Evelyn H. Bryce and family

December 3, 2008

To the family,
Our family was sorry to hear of the passing of Elsie. We pray that your memories of her will keep a smile in your heart.

December 3, 2008

To the Holland/Goowyn families,
the loss is great but the memories will last. Be assured she has earned her
crown for a life well lived. Sincerely
Ben & Elsie Johnson Silver Spring, MD

Wendy Harvey

December 3, 2008

To The Goodwyn Family

Please accept my hearfelt condolences in response to your loss. Elsie was an inspiration and a beautiful person. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

Love, Wendy

Charles Tanner

December 3, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Charles & Josephine Tanner

Carolyn (Goodwyn)Birchette

December 3, 2008

Dear Uncle Kenneth,Daddy,Uncle Larry,Aunt Gloria and Deborah:

Auntie was the one and only woman in my life that I inspired to be like. She was my idol. She was beautiful, educated, compassionate, loving and had a genuine concern for the well being and education of all children. I will always have her in my heart.

Pamela Lewis

December 3, 2008

To the Holland /Goodwyn Family:

Dr. Holland was truly an angel. I had the pleasure of working with her @ Ruffin Road/Summer Hill Elementary School.

Keep trusting In God, for he knows best. There is no pain here on earth that he in Heaven alone can not heal.

Pamela Fulton Lewis

Jacqueline (Rose) Howell

December 3, 2008

To the Goodwyn family,
I am sorry to hear of your loss. I grew up impressed and inspired by Elsie and her achievements. I will always remember her beautiful smile.
May God give you comfort and fond memories.

Charlotte Lewis-McKenzie

December 3, 2008

Kenneth Holland & Goodwyn Family:
We extend our condolences and prayers to your family in this time
of sorrow. God Bless...


Carolyn Lewis-Brooklyn, NY
Marsha Lewis-Norfolk, VA

Gary Farmer

December 3, 2008

Ken, So Sorry to hear of your loss. I'll keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. I always considered you as one of my "mentors" when I first went to work for FmHa. We all were like family then. Those were the good old days. Thinking of you, Gary

Zetta and James Ethington

December 3, 2008

Deborah and Family,
All of us were sadden to hear of your loss. Our hearts break, but we rejoice in knowing that your sister is now in "his" loving arms and where we all will continue to strive to be, her work is done here on this earth, but her legacy with continue on. Keep your faith and know that even though we are "times" apart, our love is with each of you now and always.

Jerry & Debra Harvell

December 3, 2008

Gloria and Larry, on behalf of my family I wish to express our sincere condolences to you, no words can truly express the loss of someone so dear, our only comfort is the promise that our lives are everlasting and soon we too shall be with them, it is Gods promise. May love comfort and keep you now as it always has.

Battinto Batts, Sr.

December 2, 2008

To the Goodwyn Family:

With Deepest Sympathy in the Loss of Your Loved One.

Thelma(Nesie) Peace

December 2, 2008

Uncle Jr. ,you and your family are in my thoughts in this time of sorrow.

Lillian Curley

December 2, 2008

Kenneth and the Goodwyn Family,
My sympathy goes out to you. I remember Elsie from Virginia State Un. when I was growing up there and she was a student. I later saw her when Matoaca Lab School became overcrowded and we were bussed to Union Grove School for the seventh grade. She was a teacher there. May god bless you.

Salonia Merritt Pasman

December 2, 2008

To Kenneth: During this time of sadness, may you find comfort
in the sympathy expressed by your friends and loved ones.
I remember you from Dupuy Road In Ettricks. Ms. Goodwyn was my sister's teacher.

Teresa Martin

December 1, 2008

Gloria, Larry, Debbie and Mama Goodwyn my heart was truly sadden when I learned of Elsie's passing. I will always remember her warm smiles, sweet conversations and who could forget her simply classy style of dress!

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Sign Elsie Holland's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

March 6, 2009

Jacqueline Pastreck posted to the memorial.

December 17, 2008

Milton & Yvonne Jasper- Brown posted to the memorial.

December 10, 2008

Vincent/Marcus/Jamar Smith & Ashauni King posted to the memorial.