Death of an Old Citizen.

Our community was shocked Friday morning by the announcement that an old citizen, Rev. Joel Goodwin, had died the preceding night at his home in Kingston.  Though his condition was very serious, fatal results were not expected. He became sick a few weeks ago at the residence of his son, Mr. Hiram B. Goodwin, in this place.  He became better and was taken to his home in Kingston.

The deceased was a Missionary Baptist minister for forty-three years, and was ever a zealous and faithful worker in the church.  He bore his sufferings during his last sickness without a murmur and with the fortitude of a Christian.  He was a kind husband and indulgent father and leaves a wife and seven children to mourn his loss.  The community has lost one of its oldest and best citizens.

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The Cartersville American
April 13, 1886

“Kingston Dots.”

Died, in Kingston at 7 p. m. April 8th, Rev. Joel Goodwin in the 70th year of his age.  He has been a great sufferer for several months.  He was a good man and a good citizen.  He joined the Baptist Church 45 years ago and has been a minister of the gospel 43 years.  He was interred on the 10th in the cemetery at this place, Rev. Mr. Cooper, of Cartersville, conducting the services. He leaves a wife and several children to mourn his loss.  They have the sympathies of our community.

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April 20, 1886
Page 3

Rev. Joel Goodwin.

Another one of our good and faithful citizens has gone from this world of trial and sorrow to enjoy the glories of the house above.

Rev. Joel Goodwin was born in Kentucky in the year 1817.  While he was yet a child his parents moved to Decatur, Georgia.  It was there he grew up to learn habits of integrity and sobriety.  In 1839 he was united in marriage to Miss Ireny Kyte who still survives him, a valuable help mate and companion.  From this union twelve children were born and raised to maturity.  In 1856 he moved to Kingston, Georgia, where he remained to the time of his death, there he formed many warm attachments among his neighbors.

In 1841 he was converted and joined the Baptist Church.  In 1867 he was ordained to preach, which work always afforded him great pleasure.  He was ever ready to say a word for the master, and proved through many years that he “was not ashamed of the gospel of Christ.”

He was severely afflicted for several weeks before his death which occurred on the 8th inst.  He expressed himself as perfectly willing to go.  Even desired to be with his Master; expecting to meet loved ones already gone and awaiting him on the other shore.

May his example prove of advantage to others, and his bereaved family be comforted by the Divine Helper.

“Servant of God, well done!
Rest from thy loved employ;
The battle fought, the victory won,
Enter thy Master’s joy.”
-- T.