Evelyn Blakely Goss, age 84, passed away Friday, January 12, 2024 at her home. Born March 1, 1939 in Oconee County, South Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Robert Hoke Blakely, Sr. and Ida Mae (Gibson) Blakely. She married her best friend and soulmate, Hoke Donald Goss, Sr. who preceded her in death in 2004. She is survived by her only son, Kelly H. Blakely, daughter-in-law and friend, Duchess Blakely; one precious grandson, Nicholas Blakely; two sisters, Brenda Ridley & Scott Pacetti and Lois & Larry Kelley; and many nieces and nephews.  In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by sisters: Eva Blakely, Hazel Carroll and Virginia Blakely; brothers: Joe Blakely, John Blakely, W. C. "Pete" Blakely, and R. Hoke Blakely, Jr.  She loved her family dearly.

Evelyn loved to crochet; her hands were rarely still. She was an avid reader, loved word search puzzles and old classic TV shows.  For many years Evelyn worked at Harris Auto Parts in Toccoa, GA as a secretary and then later retired from Owens Farm Supply as a bookkeeper, she always enjoyed working with numbers. She strived to live by the motto her parents instilled in her, "Do what's right and do what's good. Be kind and help others. The world can always use another kind person."

In accordance with her wishes, Evelyn will be cremated. The family will gather privately to celebrate her life at a later date.  Flowers are optional or donations can be made to the Northeast Georgia Animal Shelter, 870 Bear Creek Rd, Lavonia, GA 30553. To sign the online guest register and leave personal condolences to the family, please visit stricklandfh.com.

Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements.