Sophia L. Golphin

Ms. Sophia Laraine Lattimore Golphin was born on March 5, 1960, in Greenville, SC to her parents, Harry C. Bowens and Lourdine Lamkin. Sophia received her education in the local schools of Greenville and graduated from Riverside High School. She furthered her education at Elizabeth City State University where she received her Bachelors’ degree. Sophia worked in the healthcare field for more than 35 years prior to her illness. 

Sophia was a faithful and supportive member of Hopewell Church in Jacksonville, FL under the leadership of Pastor, Dr. Gary L. Williams, Sr. whom she also loved dearly. Sophia particularly enjoyed singing in the choir at Hopewell where she was a member for 7 years, making a joyful noise unto the Lord as a true worshipper and praiser.  Her friends got a kick out of people asking, “Who was that lady up there in the choir praising the Lord like there’s no tomorrow?”

Sophia had a joyful, servant attitude, a smile that was overwhelming and a spirit that was humble, yet quite capable. She was always willing and available when called upon. At Hopewell, she actively served in the Team Tolbert Family Group as one of its event coordinators, and she loved being “Stateside” support for the Mandarin to Malawi Ministry. Even in her illness, she would virtually attend church services, bible study and whatever events that took place. Her “whoop-whoop” comments on Facebook or YouTube when watching church events will be irreplaceable. She maintained a positive, spiritual attitude in every circumstance, even surprising her doctors with her spirit and her faith. Regardless of the news the doctors would bring her, Sophia would always say, “Whatever the Lord wills.”

Sophia also loved doing floral arrangements and did many special events where her artistic, creative talents could be displayed.  She also liked her jewelry and other “bling” and would take meticulous care of her clothes and appearance. And, don’t step in front of the TV when her Alabama Crimson Tide were playing!

But most of all, Sophia cherished her family and was extremely fond of all her nieces and nephews who were near and dear to her heart. She continually shared pictures of her family and told of their activities and events. She also loved Sunday dinners with the “Women of the Well”, who were her faithful friends who helped attend to both Sophia’s and her family’s needs throughout her illness.

Sophia was called to her heavenly home on Saturday, January 15, 2022.  She was predeceased by her father, Harry C. Bowens; her grandfather, Deacon James Lamkin (whom she referred to as “Daddy”); her grandmother, Deaconess Sarah Lampkin; her grandmother, Lillie Mae Bowens; special great-grandmother, Elizabeth Poole Bowens; and her aunt, Virginia Brooks.

Sophia is survived by those cherishing her memory, her mother, Lourdine Lamkin; her brothers, Darrel Bowens of Jacksonville, FL and Jarad Bowens (Acacia); her sisters, Natasha Bowens Blair (Crosby), and Nicole Williams and spouse; her stepmom, Sandra Blake (Will); her godmother, Carolyn McDuffie; and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives, church family, and friends.

The lives that Sophia touched, either by her words of encouragement or smiles or her spirit have been affected in ways that are indescribable. To all, she was more than a family member, she was the mentor, confidant, companion and best of all, friend.  She is now with the best friend of all and in a new choir.  SING SOPHIA!!!

Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home Southside is serving the Family.

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