Mary Elaine Goins

Mary Elaine Goins, known lovingly as Elaine, of Lake City, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2025, surrounded by the love she so generously gave to others. Born on October 24, 1955, Elaine lived a life marked by compassion, resilience, and a deep connection to nature and the people around her.

Elaine was born to Robert and Crystal Goins. She was raised alongside her siblings, Carol Goins, Johnny Goins, Belinda Goins, and Nelson Goins (Nyoka). Elaine was deeply influenced by her mother, who taught her the true meaning of kindness and compassion. Their close relationship shaped Elaine into the caring, forgiving, and selfless woman everyone knew and loved. Her mother’s example of generosity and warmth was a guiding light in Elaine and her sibling’s lives, and she carried those lessons forward in how she treated others.

In later years, Elaine became the loving wife of Leon Howard, her partner in life until his passing in 2018. Elaine was a proud mom to her three children—Curtis Robinson (Beth), Crystal Robinson, and Derek Robinson—and an even prouder grandmother to Cassidy Casey, Bryson Godo, Gracy Lee, Lane Robinson, Morgan Robinson and Dean Robinson. She also adored her two great-grandchildren, Brooklyn and Reid, and cherished her title as “Memaw.”

Elaine’s family went beyond those named here. When Elaine and Leon devoted their lives to one another, she became family to his mother, his siblings, his children, and grandchildren as well. She embraced them with the same love and care she gave her own, forming a blended family with lasting bonds.

Elaine had a heart that made everyone feel like family. Her best friend, Donna DuBose, was her partner-in-crime, a true reflection of the meaningful relationships Elaine built throughout her life. She never met a stranger, and anyone lucky enough to cross her path left feeling a little happier and a whole lot more loved.

With a passion for flowers and a green thumb that could make anything bloom, Elaine’s yard and gardens were her sanctuary. Hummingbirds, her favorite bird, often stopped by one of the many feeders placed in the yard. Elaine took joy in the beauty she created. She also had a great love for animals, particularly stray cats. Elaine would feed them, and she would nurse kittens back to health, making sure they had a safe place to stay.

Elaine’s strength and forgiving nature were unmatched. Whether she was caring for her husband through his battle with cancer or bravely facing her own, she always found a way to spread love and kindness. Even during her time at McLeod Regional Medical Center, she left a lasting impression on the doctors, nurses, and staff who cared for her in her final days, surrounded by family.

To honor Elaine’s memory, her family invites you to share a random act of kindness—plant a beautiful flower, donate to an animal shelter, lend a helping hand, or simply be there for someone who needs you. It’s exactly how Elaine lived her life, and nothing would make her happier.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 – 11:00 AM, Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Carolina Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be 11:00 AM, Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Carolina Funeral Home Chapel, with private burial.

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