Elaine Joyce Goodwin

“Don’t make this long — you will get thirsty.”

Elaine Joyce Goodwin, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, partner, and friend, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of strength, grace, and love. Born in Guyana, South America, on November 4, 1932, to Mary and Walter Welch, Elaine lived a life marked by courage, determination, and unwavering faith.

She received her early education at Stevens Private School and began her career at BRIANA Manufacturing Company Ltd. In 1968, she made a bold decision to leave her homeland and pursue new opportunities abroad. Her journey took her to Canada and Washington, D.C., before she eventually settled in Boston, Massachusetts, the city she would proudly call her new home.

In Boston, Elaine flourished both personally and professionally. She was a talented and dedicated seamstress at the House of Bianchi in South Boston, where her craftsmanship and strong work ethic earned her the respect and admiration of many.

Her greatest joy came from her family. She was a devoted mother to Ingrid Clarke, Compton Bowman (Patricia), and the late Keith and Trevor Wharton. Her love extended to her grandchildren: Dexter (Andrea) and Osmine Clarke; John Morant; Toya, Tasha, Devon Wharton, Tyrone Watkins, and Tromaine Bell; Laneita, David, William (Ashley), and Justice Bowman; Keisha; and Seana Collins; Steven (Casey) and Richard (Jenna) and to her great-grandchildren: Tatyianna, Kadeem, Gavin Clarke, Ariana and Aaryn Clarke; Zamia and Von, Aniyah, and Anyja Bowman, Tatiyana, Kyrie, Domenic; Angelia, Analise, and Damian, Chase and Jonas Morant; Bobby, Noah, Jaxson, christopher; samantha and Hannah as well as cherished memories of the late Terrence Clarke. She took immense pride in her family’s accomplishments and always encouraged us to “do your best, and God will do the rest,” offering encouragement, wisdom, guidance, and unconditional love.

Elaine shared many years of companionship and devotion with her late partner, Herman Forde, whose memory remained close to her heart throughout her life.

She is survived by her loving sisters, Thelma Watkins and Laurel Agard, and was preceded in death by her siblings Desmond and Alonzo Welch, Imay Charles, Eulene Holloway, and Cecile Kingston. Elaine leaves behind her loving nieces, Lisa Watkins, Sharlie Welch, Mitzi Sweeney, and Jennifer, Rosana, and Jackie, as well as her devoted nephews, Gary, Terrence, and Ivor Holloway, Keith, and Sean Welch. She is also reunited in peace with her late nieces, Carol Watkins, Rosana Welch, and Abigale Welch, and her late nephews, Colin and Franz Welch. Her love also extended to her broad network of friends, making each one feel special and valued.

Elaine’s life was defined by compassion, perseverance, and devotion to her loved ones. She brought light and warmth to all who knew her. Her memory will continue to inspire her family and friends, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of many.

May she rest in eternal peace, 

knowing that her love, strength, and kindness will never be forgotten.