Sarah Ellen Goodwyn of Machipongo

Sarah Goodwyn, affectionately known by family and friends as “Freshie,” passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 28, 2021, at her daughter’s home in Chesapeake, Virginia, surrounded by her family.

Sarah was born on January 8, 1947, according to her birth certificate, but her birth was celebrated on January 9th (there lies a long story). Sarah is the daughter of the late Maria Simpkins and Severn Nottingham, but was raised and loved by Henry Simpkins, Sr. Sarah was preceded in death by her loving husband of fifty-two years, Clarence.

Sarah received her high school diploma from Northampton High School but received a PHD in being a caring and kind woman. Sarah had the title of home-maker, but she was a teacher, chef, driver, nurse, seamstress, coach, advocate, and bodyguard for over fifty-five years to her four children; and she was a loving and devoted wife to her husband, Clarence, prior to his death. She was a very strong, giving, and God-fearing woman.

Sarah was a member of Union Baptist Church for many years. You could often find her keeping order at the entrance of the sanctuary and handing out bulletins and fans, as she served as an usher. She was also an inactive member of the Order of the Eastern Stars, her highest rank achieved was sphinx.

She leaves to cherish her precious memories: four children, Clarence of Essex, Maryland, Sarah Mitchell (Peter) of Chesapeake, Virginia, Beverly Goodwyn of Virginia Beach, and Althea Creary (Symone) of Chesapeake, Virginia; a loving and cuddly four-legged dog-son, Coco; four grandchildren, Kendra Goodwyn, Jasmine Mitchell, Jada Mitchell, and Brandon Goodwyn; one great-grandson, Jayden Moore; two step-grandsons, Shemar Mason and Pierre Mitchell; four siblings with whom she grew up, Preston Simpkins, Henry Simpkins (Shirneda), Robert Lee Simpkins (Octavius), and Margaret Price (Elvis); a long-term special sister-friend, Charlotte Weeks; and a host of other relatives, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Services will be conducted from the John O. Morris Funeral Chapel, Nassawadox on Saturday, August 7, 2021 at 11 AM at John O. Morris Funeral Chapel, Nassawadox with Rev. Charles Kellam officiating.  Visitation and viewing will be held from 5 until 7 PM at John O. Morris Funeral Home, Nassawadox.  Relatives and friend may call the John O. Morris Funeral Home, Nassawadox.

For additional information and/or visit the funeral home website:  www.morrisfuneralhome.org.

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