Ruth Benzenna Goines

Mrs. Ruth Benzenna Squirewell Goines, at age 93 years, entered into eternal rest on Thursday, May 16, 2013. Ruth Benzenna Squirewell was born September 27, 1919 to John Talbot Squirewell and Henrietta Squirewell in the Nelson community of Winnsboro, south Carolina. At birth, Ruth had two older half siblings, John Earl Kennedy and Ozella Kennedy. Later brother James was born. When Ruth was three years old her mother passed, leaving her and James to be cared for by their grandmothers. Two years later, their father married Annie Bell Jamison, who had two children, Susie and Lester Jamison. Ruth’s father moved his new family to Charlotte, North Carolina where Ruth attended public school, graduating Second Ward High School, class of 1938. Ruth had a passion for learning and education. She wanted to attend college and become a school teacher but the times and lack of finances did not permit it. She later did become a teacher to her own children, instilling in them a love for reading books and learning. In 1939, Ruth married Ambrose William Goines and they were blessed with four children, two sons and two daughters. Her family always came first even after she was afforded the oppoprtunity to further advance her education and did so. Mrs. Goines attended carver College, Charlotte, North Carolina, graduating Summa Cum Laude, class of 1956, licensed in Cosmetology. Her chosen career was one she loved and worked in well past retirement. Mrs. Goines, a gifted Milliner blessed many in her family with unique beautiful hats. A devoted member of Emmanuel Presbyterian Church and Memorial Presbyterian Church for over 50 years. She was often found with a Bible in hand. She strove to love her Christian values seeking the Lord’s guidance daily. Aquiet person, loving but firm parent, Mrs. Goines was an enduring source of strength and guidance to her family as well as others who approached her for that loving, gentle touch. Mrs. Ruth squirewell Goines was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years Ambrose William Goines, Sr. She is survived by her loving and devoted sons Ambrose William ( Barbara ) Goines, Jr., Donald Earl ( Elloree ) Goines both of Charlotte, North Carolina; daughters, Sandra Goines White of Charlotte, Carolina and Daaimah Rasheed, Ne’e Cheryl Benzenne’ Goines of Columbia, South Carolina; ten grandchildren twelve great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

Ruth Benzenna Goines

September 27, 1919 - May 16, 2013