Thelbert Nelson Goins, 96, of Pasco, Washington, passed away Monday, May 26, 2025.

He was born June 19, 1928 in Graysville, TN.

He was the son of the late Harrison M. and Stella M. Goins and was preceded in death by his six sisters - Cleo Goins, Nettie Bolden, Jewell Curtis, Juanita Goins, Allie Smith, and Vernia Miles.

Thelbert completed a 2 year degree at San Diego City College.

Thelbert joined the Merchant Marines in 1945 and served as an Engine/Fireman aboard the SS 'Clarke's Wharf'.

In 1949-50, he worked as a Crane Operator with Rohr Aircraft in Chula Vista, CA.

In 1950-52, Thelbert served in the US Army and received the Korean Service Medal with two Bronze stars.

Something Thelbert enjoyed was barbering. He served as a barber for Johnny Ray's Barber Shop in National City, CA for ten years.

Thelbert was a Civil Service employee at Naval Air Station North Island for the Navy for 25 years. He retired from Naval Air Rework Facility in San Diego at Naval Air Station North Island as a Production Scheduler in 1989.

After his retirement, Thelbert (Bert) enjoyed traveling in his motorhome with extended family to the National Parks and to Quartzsite, AZ.

Thelbert (Bert) attended Bethel Church in Richland, WA for several years and was an active member of the Senior Singles group at Bethel.

The last few years Thelbert (Bert) enjoyed having lunch with friends at the Pasco Senior Center. Thelbert was a Lifetime member of the Lemon Grove, CA Chapter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).

Survivors include his three children, Carmen M. Sawyer (William), of Richland, WA, Dolly R. Goins of Richland, WA, Steve N. Goins (Terri) of Gig Harbor, WA and eight grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, September 6, 2025 in the Desertview Room at Bethel Church in Richland, WA. with Rev Dale Shaver officiating. The interment will be in Washington State Veterans Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Lemon Grove, CA Chapter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).

Please share your thoughts and memories online at: Einan's at Hillcrest, Pasco.

Arrangements by Einan's at Hillcrest, Pasco.