Emma Wright Goodwin

Emma Wright Goodwin, born to John Walton and Zoe Reese Wright on July 13, 1935 in Nelson County, VA, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home surrounded by her family, on March 21, 2024.

She is survived by her husband, the love of her life, Robert Nelson Goodwin. They were married on June 5, 1953 at Bethlehem United Methodist Church, Roseland, Virginia.

In addition to her husband, she is left to treasure her memory of her four children, Deborah G. Nicely (Harold), Susan G. Angus (Sam), Robert Nelson Goodwin, Jr. (Wanda) and James Walton Goodwin (Darlene). Also surviving her are twelve grandchildren, Tracey Valance, William Nicely, Mick Angus, Michelle Alger, Samantha Turner, Eric and Tony Lowrey, Robert Goodwin, III, Jenifer Stout, Brandon Swan, Brian and Ashleigh Goodwin. Emma is also survived by eighteen great grandchildren, Aubrey and Gavin Nicely, Amber Alger, Xander Arbaugh Turner, Emma Pearl Turner, Isaiah, Josiah, Parker and Madison Lowrey, Dakota Goodwin, Ashlyn, Peyton, Taylor and Charlotte Stout, Alexis and Liam Swan, Brooke and Garrett Goodwin. 

She is survived by one brother, John Howard Wright (Shirley). She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister and her husband, Amanda and Gene Fielding and a brother and his wife William and Carolyn Wright. She is also survived by one sister-in-law, Elizabeth Goodwin and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Emma was a special lady, with a very lively and spirited personality. She touched many lives and anyone who knew her, loved and respected her greatly.

A graveside service will be conducted at 1 p.m., Monday, March 25, 2024, at Trinity Episcopal Church, 475 Oak Ridge Rd., Arrington, VA with the Rev. Dr. Edwin Clever and the Rev. Debbie Powell officiating. A reception will follow at Nelson UMC, 5239 Thomas Nelson Hwy, Arrington, VA.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the James River Hospice nurses (Emily, Brandy and Rhonda) for their passionate care.

In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to the building fund at Nelson United Methodist Church, her home church.

Arrangements by Wells/ Sheffield Funeral Chapel of Lovingston, VA. (434-263-4097).