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When Fran shared the news of Garland Goodwin’s passing with me on Monday morning, my first feeling was not only sadness—but admiration.

Garland, who died peacefully on Sunday afternoon, was a man who was easy to look up to. He was humble, accomplished, well-read, and soft-spoken. I always looked forward to his columns and conversation, which often led into the long history of the Tryon Daily Bulletin—a history he was very much a part of for almost his entire life.

For those who may not know, Garland first started helping at the Bulletin way back in 1940 after his grandfather took him to meet Seth Vining. The Bulletin’s founder was so impressed with Garland’s potential that he offered to let him come in on Saturdays to set up the display type portions of ads to be run in the newspaper.

This marked the beginning of a long relationship between Garland and Mr. Vining. I imagine it also helped spark something in Garland that stayed with him for the next 84 years: an interest in how and why things worked. Garland went on to become a pressman, an engineer, an airplane pilot, a writer, and a historian, and he no doubt wore many different hats. 

My experiences with Garland were always pleasant, and I was always fascinated by his stories. He leaves behind a wonderful family and too many friends to count—but he also leaves behind a legacy that we should all aspire to achieve.

When Garland started writing columns for the Tryon Daily Bulletin in the spring of 1995, he likely didn’t expect to be writing them for the next 29 years. Thankfully, he did. His writing not only chronicled his experiences here in Tryon and all over the country but also honored friends and acquaintances who had passed on. His countless columns, most of which are compiled into over half a dozen books, offer a glimpse into how Garland thought, how he learned, and how he treated others.

The way in which he treated others, how he wrote of them and how he spoke of them, should be an example that we all follow. Garland never met a stranger and always saw the best in people. Everywhere he went and every person that he met was remembered—tucked away in the steel vault to be recalled for a future column, conversation, or anecdote. He was always present when you met with him, something that is lacking in today’s world of fast-moving interactions or brief encounters. He was authentic, respectful, and kind.

Our community lost a giant among men last weekend, but I’m grateful to have known Garland Goodwin and know that he’s now at peace, fondly remembering all the folks he came to know over his 94 years. 

Bravo, Garland, on a life well-lived.