Women’s History Month Spotlight: Edna “Peaches” Lamison Goodman

Edna “Peaches” Lamison Goodman, alongside her husband Carey Goodman, holds a special and lasting place in the history of the Barnes–Blow Family.

Together, they were responsible for organizing the first Barnes–Blow family gathering, which would grow into what we now know as the Barnes–Blow Family Reunion.

At a time when bringing extended family together required true intention and sacrifice, they not only planned the gathering but also personally paid for all of the food, creating a space where family could come together in love and fellowship.

The gathering took place at Mama Rhea’s home on the family farm, a place already rich with tradition. On Sundays after church, family and friends would gather on the wraparound porch, sharing stories, laughter, and connection. Children played softball in the yard, while younger ones explored the fields and woods, creating memories that would last for generations.

Peaches and Carey also owned and operated Goodman Florist in Suffolk, Virginia, serving their community with creativity and care.

Peaches is the daughter of Winget Lamison and Beatrice Barnes Lamison, and the granddaughter of Langston Barnes and Rhea Mae “Mama Rhea” Blow Barnes. She carried forward the values of love, unity, and family devotion that defined those before her.

She is also the proud mother of her daughter, Melissa, son Earl, and a loving grandmother, continuing her legacy through the next generations.

Known for her kindness, compassion, and welcoming spirit, Peaches made everyone feel like they belonged. The tradition she and Carey helped establish continues to bring generations of the Barnes–Blow family together today.

Her life is a reminder that something as simple as gathering, sharing a meal, and opening your home can create a legacy that lasts far beyond a single moment.

Peaches has truly been a blessing to the Barnes–Blow Family.

Tribute poem:

A Trailblazer: Edna Elizabeth Lamison Goodman (Peaches)

In the tapestry of time, a story unfolds,  

Of Edna “Peaches” Goodman, whose courage we hold.  

Born in December, ’40’s embrace,  

In a world where agriculture set the pace.  

Yet her mother dreamed of more, a brighter way,  

And Peaches, the eldest, saved the day.  

A firstborn daughter, strong and true,  

In high school halls, her bravery grew.  

When brothers faced fights, she stood by their side,  

A surrogate mom, with love as her guide.  

When her mother fell ill, she took on the role,  

Ensuring her siblings stayed whole.  

A trailblazer she is, in every sense,  

Leading her family with great expense.  

The first to attend college, she paved the way,  

Inspiring siblings and cousins to stay focus and not stray. 

Nearly twenty degrees, her legacy trailblazed. 

She was a beacon of hope, I am still amazed. 

She carried family not just in name, but in flame,

A steady fire no years could tame.

Back in the early sixties, bold and true,

With Carey beside her, a family reunion vision she drew.

At their own expense, no fanfare, no applause,

Just love as the reason, and love as the cause.

She started reunions, stitched it tight,

Threaded with memory, laughter, and light.

A trailblazer walking where none had gone,

Building a legacy strong and long.

Now sixty years later, it still stands tall,

A living testament… as though she was called. 

Serving her church in choir and missionary too. 

The first female deacon, I ever knew 

A mother, a grandmother, with a heart so wide,  

Adopting a son, with love as her guide.  

At eighty-five, she still works with might,  

A testament to her enduring fight.  

Edna “Peaches” Goodman, a name we revere, 

Oh what a woman, her leadership is clear.

So let’s honor her on this Women’s  History Day

Her Strength, her love and her grace.

A trailblazer forever, we will never part

For she will always have a place in our heart.

By Leatha Lamison-White 

Edited by Lillian Lemelle