Elaine Stokes

ELAINE GOODWIN STOKES, 84 Educator LAKELAND - Elaine Stokes, 84, passed from this earth to be with her Lord and Savior on July 25, 2011, from complications of a fractured hip. She was born in Chicago, IL., on Oct. 21, 1926, to George and Arvilla Goodwin. After high school graduation, she went on the blind date of her life where she met the love of her life, Earl Stokes. Earl predeceased her in death in November 2010. They were married on July 6, 1945. Their union produced two daughters, Lois McDermott, Arvilla Lemanski and a son-in-law James Lemanski. She is also survived by 3 grandchildren: William Greer, Jr., Erin McDermott and Patrick McDermott, as well as 2 great- grandchildren: Dylan Greer and Allyson Greer, also not to be forgotten, their mother Ilene Greer. And we will never forget her special friends Laura Wallace and Michael Baxley, who provided her with so much the last few months of her life. "Thank you Laura and Michael". She touched many young lives during her lifetime. She assisted her young husband in obtaining his college degree and then she received her degree in education from Florida Southern College and a masters degree in educational leadership from Rollins College. She was an educator for 26 years for the Polk County School Board. She was a wonderful mother to her daughters, imparting in them their need for self reliance in their lives. "Women need to be able to take care of themselves," she would say. Elaine enjoyed traveling these great United States with Earl after their retirement. She enjoyed her time with her friends and loved animals, especially kitty cats. A viewing will be held on Thursday, July 28, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. at the Resurrection Catholic Church, followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 11 a.m. at the church. "Go now Mom and be at peace with Daddy". We love you, Your family. Heath Funeral Chapel in charge of arrangements