Dorothy "Dot" Loftin Goodwin

Dorothy “Dot” Loftin Goodwin, 98, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2025, at Avendelle Assisted Living in Cary, North Carolina. Born in Goldsboro, NC, Dot was the beloved daughter of the late Arthur and Sallie Beal Loftin, and the devoted wife of the late William “Bill” Shreve Goodwin.

A proud alumna of Meredith College, Dot graduated in 1947 with a Bachelor of Arts in Music—a passion that would define her life’s work. She met Bill while in college on a blind date, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in faith, family, and community. Together, they raised their three children on a farm outside Apex.

Dot dedicated over five decades of service as the Minister of Music and Organist at Apex Baptist Church, sharing her gift of music with generations. She founded the Apex Area Youth Chorus in the late 1960s, uniting youth from local churches and even producing a choral album. She also established the church’s handbell choir, leaving a lasting musical legacy.

Beyond her church and family, Dot remained deeply involved in education and civic leadership. She was a longtime Trustee of Meredith College and received the Outstanding Alumnae Award in 1987. A trailblazer in her faith community, she was the first—and only—woman to serve as Moderator of the Raleigh Baptist Association, and she contributed her voice to the General Board of the Baptist State Convention. For many years, she also curated the treasured Meredith Dolls collection.

Dot is survived by her sister, Carolyn Loftin Noble (the late Clifton Noble) of Goldsboro; her daughters, Claire Elizabeth Goodwin of Salida, Colorado, Susan Goodwin Thornbrough and husband Floyd, of Fuquay-Varina; and her son, David Loftin Goodwin and wife Karin, of Raleigh. She is lovingly remembered by her grandchildren—Mary Tavares, Michael D. Tavares (Gina Peters), Mark Tavares (Stuart Sanders), Matthew Thornbrough (Laura), Heather Thornbrough Rouse (Kyle), and Connor “Will” Goodwin—and by her nine great-grandchildren: Lily, Turner, Genevieve, Wyatt, Wrenna, Reed, Madelynn, Riley, and Loftin. She leaves behind a large circle of extended family and dear friends.

A celebration of Dot’s life will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Apex Baptist Church. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. in the church sanctuary. A brief committal service will take place at Apex Cemetery, and guests are invited to return to the church afterwards for a reception and lunch with the family.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the devoted Caregivers at Avendelle Assisted Living on Maynard and to Heartland Hospice nurses. Their compassionate presence and attentive care provided dignity and comfort throughout Dot’s final chapter. In particular, the family would like to thank Waynika and Nina, whose kindness and dedication left a lasting impact.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Baptist Children’s Home, PO Box 338, Thomasville, NC 27361.

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