John "Johnny" Franklin Goins

"And when the night is cloudy there is still a light that shines on me.

Shinin' until tomorrow, let it be"

John "Johnny" Franklin Goins, passed away at home on September 11, 2023. He was born December 8, 1950 in Bland, VA to Victor and Glada Goins. He was 7th out of 9 brothers and sisters. He was known to be adventurous during his younger years - just ask his siblings. Johnny never truly "grew up," and could always be expected to crack a joke, no matter the circumstance. We expected nothing less.

He was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was married to Kim for 30 years on July 17th of this year. He was father to Ashley (Matt), Ariel (Kody), and Jonathan. Johnny held the title of World's Best Papa/PopPop to Jocelyn, Calan, and Jemma. Johnny was steadfast in his faith, attending the same church for his entire life.

Johnny graduated from Bland High School in 1969 and Wytheville Community College. After graduating he worked at AMSCO Textron Factory in Wytheville in customer service for over 35 years. In 2008, he was elected and served the county as Treasurer for almost 16 years, retiring only in August of 2023.

He was a pillar of the community and always willing to lend a hand. Johnny was known for volunteering as coach for many little league teams and DJing many dances and proms. Johnny kept the clock at football and basketball games for over 50 years. He was also a volunteer for many organizations throughout the county. He was also the caretaker of the Bland Cemetery for numerous years.

Johnny collected wood from 1972 on and knew exactly where it was around his property. He knew that "one day" that lumber would be needed. Any kind of hardware you needed…he had it – he just had to find it first. Johnny's 1972 Ford Mustang was his pride and joy, until his grandkids came along, and then everyone else was chopped liver. He was a lover of the Beatles and the "oldies," which he passed on to his granddaughter Jocelyn. His love of racing was passed on to his grandson Calan, who loves to work on race cars. Johnny loved the beach and being outside. It wouldn't be unusual to drive by and see him outside sharing his love for the outdoors with Jemma. He loved to mow and took great care to make sure his yard was always looking the best.

Johnny made many friends in this life – he was just the kind of person who drew people in. He never lost his childlike spirit and love for life. Anyone who knew him knew that he was the most loving husband, father, and grandfather a family could ask for, as well as the friend you could always count on. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

The family would like to thank the hospice nurses who took such great care of him, as well as his special friends Timmy Dillow and Kathy Harner who visited often up until the very end.

A Memorial Service will be held at Bland Funeral Chapel in Bland, VA on Friday September 15, 2023, with the visitation from 4:00 to 7:00 and the service following at 7:00. There will be a private inurnment service held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the Bland Lutheran-Presbyterian Fellowship Hall. Donations can be sent to 40 Main Street Bland, VA 24315. Bland Funeral Chapel is serving the Goins family.