Bernice Goodson

Bernice Carroll Goodson of Danville, Va. died peacefully on August 8 after a long decline in health. Bernice was born on May 7, 1923 in Caswell County, NC, the daughter of Reuben Henderson Carroll and Marthann Patterson Carroll. After graduating from Cobb Memorial School, she attended Averett College and worked at the Bank of Yanceyville. On July 23, 1945, she married her childhood sweetheart Louie Aubrey Goodson, Jr. in a whirlwind wedding organized while he was on a two-week leave from military service. Together, they built a wonderful life that spanned more than five decades and included four children who love them dearly. Bernice and Aubrey resided in the Washington DC area for 10 years before settling in Danville in 1959. She was an active member of First Baptist Church, where she served in multiple volunteer roles over five decades. She was also a member of the Wednesday Club and the Windsor Heights Garden Club. Her special joy was creating a vibrant life for her family, whom she surrounded with love and encouragement. She delighted in making a warm, beautiful home and was an excellent Southern cook. She ensured that accomplishments were honored and holidays fully celebrated. As grandchildren arrived, she greeted each with adoration and built memories that they treasure. Bernice had an innate sense of style and enjoyed dressing with attention to style and detail. She played the piano regularly, especially hymns, well into her 80s. She is survived by her children, Louie Aubrey Goodson, III (Debbie) of Gastonia, NC, Gayle Goodson Butler (Scott) of Greenville, SC, Mark Edward Goodson of Salem, VA, and Mary Ellen Goodson Woods (Bill) of Purley, NC. Also surviving are 6 grandchildren: Jessica Goodson, Margaret Goodson Graham, Sarah Beckwith Butler, Ellen Carroll Butler, William Aubrey Woods, and Caroline Stinson Woods. In addition, she is survived by four great-grandchildren, beloved sisters-in-law Judy Carroll and Nancy Goodson Parrott, and many cherished nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband Aubrey (1999), Baby Goodson (1946), seven sisters and five brothers, as well as by her very dear friend in later life, Leonard Thompson. She was the last survivor of the 13 Carroll siblings born between 1901 and 1931. The family will receive visitors Saturday, August 13 from 11:30 – 1 pm at First Baptist Church of Danville (817 Main St.) A funeral service will follow at 1:00 pm in the church sanctuary. A private interment will be at Mountain View Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Danville or the Providence, NC Volunteer Fire Department.