Dennis Eugene Goodwin, 81, of Rockingham, passed away Jan. 6, 2024, at his home.
Born in Rockingham, he was the son of the late Jack and Maggie Goodwin.
He graduated from Rohanan High School, Class of 1963. Just after graduation and being one of three boys at home, he was drafted into the United States Army where he served in the Vietnam War. He was a proud Army veteran where he attended many local events and respected the American Flag like many servicemen and women.
Once returning home from the war, Dennis worked in textiles and later found his lifelong career as a mechanic for CSX Transportation. He began his career at the machine shop and later his job turned to traveling the Carolinas continuing his mechanical work.
He had a knack for fixing things. Rather it be a chainsaw or a backhoe, he was willing to accept the job.
For those that knew Dennis knew he was a “jokester,” especially with his grandchildren! He enjoyed splitting wood, yard work, and fishing. He was most proud of “riding off” telling stories and showing places he worked while working on the road with the railroad.
Surviving is his wife, Patsy, of the home along with their four-legged baby Molly; children, Kelli Lyerly (Mark), Duke (Stacey), Deane Allen (Stacey), Pam and Michael; grandchildren, Forrest, Hunter, Blake, Lance, Bryce, Vance, Gaela, Cooper, Spencer, Kenlyn, Thomas and Stephanie; along with a growing number of great-grandchildren; and brother Roger.
He was preceded in death by his father, mother and brother Leo.
Services are being held at Watson-King, Rockingham, Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024. The family will visit with guests at 1 p.m. followed by the funeral at 2 p.m. in the chapel of Watson-King, Rockingham with Pastor June Grant officiating. The burial will be at Haywood Cemetery, Rockingham. At other times, the family will visit at his home at 133 Wilderness Drive, Rockingham.
In addition to flowers, memorial donations can be made out to the local AMVETS Post 316 in Rockingham.
Online condolences can be made at watson-kingfuneralhome.com. Watson-King Funeral Home in Rockingham is assisting the Goodwin family.
