Jimmy Goins facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Jimmy Goins
|
|
---|---|
Chairman of the Lumbee | |
In office 2004–2010 |
|
Succeeded by | Paul Brooks |
Personal details | |
Born | August 31, 1948 |
Died | June 7, 2015 Maxton, North Carolina, US |
(aged 66)
Spouse | Diane Goins |
Children | 3 daughters |
Residence | Philadelphus, North Carolina |
James Ernest Goins (born August 31, 1948 – died June 7, 2015) was an important leader for the Lumbee people. He was the Chairman of the Lumbee Tribe in North Carolina from 2004 to 2010. As Chairman, Jimmy Goins worked hard to get the Lumbee Tribe officially recognized by the United States government.
The Lumbee Tribe has about 55,000 members. They are recognized by the state of North Carolina. However, they are still working to get federal recognition from the U.S. government. The Lumbee are the largest Native American tribe east of the Mississippi River that does not yet have federal recognition.
About Jimmy Goins
Early Life and Service
Jimmy Goins was born on August 31, 1948. His parents were Ernest and Ola Lee Goins. He grew up in a place called Prospect, North Carolina.
When he was in high school in 1965, Jimmy was on the Prospect High School basketball team. His team won the Indian Basketball Championship that year. After high school, Goins joined the military. He served in the Vietnam War as a leader of an infantry squad. He was part of the 504th Infantry Regiment in the 82nd Airborne Division.
Leading the Lumbee Tribe
Jimmy Goins served as the Chairman of the Lumbee Tribe for six years. His term lasted from 2004 until 2010. During his time as Chairman, Goins focused on getting federal recognition for the Lumbee people.
In September 2007, he spoke to the United States Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. This was part of his efforts to help the tribe gain federal recognition.
Later Life and Legacy
After his term as Chairman ended, Jimmy Goins ran for the position again in 2012. However, he did not win that election. Paul Brooks became the new Lumbee Chairman.
Jimmy Goins lived in Philadelphus, North Carolina. He was married to Diane Goins, and they had three daughters named Rhonda, Jackie, and Jamie.
Sadly, Jimmy Goins passed away on June 7, 2015. He was 66 years old. He died in a car accident near Maxton, North Carolina. After his death, the Governor of North Carolina, Pat McCrory, and the First Lady, Ann McCrory, shared their sadness. Governor McCrory ordered all state flags to be lowered to half staff on June 11, 2015, to honor Jimmy Goins.