In my article from last week, I wrote about what draws people to Mississippi, which ultimately led me to sit down with David Goodwin, a Mississippian for over three decades, to ask him what he loves about Mississippi. He’s definitely a character, so here’s what he had to say…
1. Tell us about yourself. How long have you been in Mississippi? Where have you lived?
I wasn’t born in Mississippi, but I got here as soon as I could!
I was born in Miami, Florida, joined the Air Force after a year at The University of Florida, and lived in Texas, Oklahoma, Georgia, California, and Germany during my 29+ years of active duty. I retired in Hattiesburg in 1988. I had previous experience living in Hattiesburg in 1977 while I completed a Bachelor’s Degree at Southern Miss. At that time, my wife and I decided to retire here when the time came.
2. What are your favorite things about Mississippi?
Location is always an important factor. We’re Close enough to the coast to be able to enjoy it, yet (so we thought, prior to Katrina) far enough to avoid the hurricane effect. Also, Mississippi is in a strategic location in reference to family. Of course, having grown up in the south, I prefer living in a southern climate, even though we have had some extremes lately. I like the topography as well as the flora and fauna.
3. Do you have any stories or experiences that made you love Mississippi even more?
I had one vital experience that made an indelible impression! As a second lieutenant, I was at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi for electronics school and renting a house in Ocean Springs. I visited the local Methodist church and met a young lady who asked to borrow my fountain pen. She proceeded to shake the pen and splatter turquoise ink down the sleeve of my white dress shirt! She later became my bride and we celebrated our 59th wedding anniversary in June of this year.
Here is David and his wife, Kristy.
Do you have a specific reason or story that can be attributed to your love for Mississippi? Tell us! Whether it’s on social media or in the comments below, we want to hear why you love this great state too!