Christopher David Goings

Christopher David Goings, 44, of Wilmington, NC, passed away on Sunday, September 2, 2012, in Raleigh, NC, where he was pursuing his doctoral degree in ""Psychology in the Public Interest"" at the University of North Carolina. Chris was born on December 8, 1967 in San Juan, Puerto Rico at Ft. Buchannan Military Hospital. He graduated from Fishburne Military Academy in Waynesboro, VA in 1985. He subsequently moved to Wilmington, NC, where he met and married Renee Rucker. Together they shared 13 years of a fairytale marriage. Travel, camping, biking and the care of beloved dogs and cats were passions that they shared. Their home was always open to friends and filled with warmth and laughter. Christopher studied at UNCW with a major in Psychology. He received his Bachelor and Master of Arts in Psychology in 2002 and 2007. It was from his study of Psychology that he developed a passion for improving education and teaching of minority students. He was looking forward to a career of helping others. Although his untimely death did not allow him to reach his full potential, he authored and co-authored many publications, and was the recipient of honors and awards in his chosen field. In 2001, he became a member of Psi Chi National Honor Society in Psychology, and in 2002 he received the Award of Excellence in Advanced Counseling Practicum and the Hoggard Medal of Achievement, both from the University of North Carolina Wilmington. He was preceded in death by his wife, Renee. He is survived by his daughter, Christina Ferguson, his mother, Dr. Stella Goings; aunt Grace and uncle Bill Lawrence; cousins, Antoinette McDonald, Robert McDonald, Kimberly Lawrence and many other family members, colleagues, friends and pets. Chris was our shining light that has been extinguished far too soon. He loved life, and everything he encountered. Though short, he lived a full and productive life. He will be missed by his many friends and colleagues.