Eulogy for Mom

Most here know that our mother, Jeannie Goynes, was born in 1932, met and married our father John D. Goynes Sr., had seven children and lived most of her life in Live Oak County, Texas.1

But when we think of Mom, we remember more than the surface details. We remember a woman whose quiet strength, gentle humor, and loving touch nurtured us through so much of life.2

We learned so much from her.3

We learned to be kind--- for Mom’s example taught us this. We learned to look into another’s eyes a bit longer than necessary to see and feel if kindness is needed. Our mother taught us that it usually is.4

We learned to love others with food. Our house was often filled with friends and relatives who came by to visit---often just in time for dinner. Our mother never complained about the extras, she just threw in a few more potatoes and greeted our guests. No one ever left her house hungry, not if she could help it. This continued as we grew older. You could always get a hug and a meal at Mom’s house.5

We learned that the sweetness of life always outweighs the bitter, that you can be happy, if you choose to be happy. That joy in your heart will always return if you are open to it. We may have learned how to work from our father, but our mother taught us to be happy in what we do.6

We learned our love of news and politics from our mother. She was always up-to-date on all the goings-on of the day. There was always something to talk about with Mom, because she knew so much about the world.7

We learned that life is so much easier if we just “be ourselves”. That to live life openly and honestly is the only way to go…8

We learned to live with dignity and this last lesson, the hard one; we learned to die with dignity. It was hard to watch her go, but Mom was a lady and a lady always knows when to leave.9

What we are, what we think, and what we believe can be attributed to this woman. She offered help when we wanted it, nourishment when we needed it, and she loved us unconditionally. We will miss you, Mom.10

The following is a poem written by her granddaughter, Betsy Wallek.11

How lucky am I12

That you blessed my life13

For as long as you did.14

How lucky am I15

That you became much more16

Than my loving Gramma17

Who always got me ice cream 18

At three o’clock on the dot,19

You became one of the 20

Strongest women I know21

And I grew to see how22

Your faith in God radiated off of you…23

Just like your beauty did.24

How lucky am I25

To have witnessed your unwavering love26

And to have received it.27

How lucky I will be28

If I can become just as you were29

Strong and faithful30

Just as you are31

And touch just as many lives32

With loving care.33

I love you Gramma.34