Mae Murphy was born on February 17, 1936, in Unaka, North Carolina. She was one of seven children born from the union of Jesse “Claim” Murphy and Essie (Payne) Murphy. Mae always spoke affectionately of her childhood home, referring to it as "down home." Though she spent the last fifty-eight years of her life in Romulus, Michigan, Mae’s heart always remained tethered to Blairsville, Georgia.

Mae’s life took a significant turn when her family relocated from Blairsville to Detroit during her teenage years. The bustling city provided new opportunities and experiences, foremost among them meeting the love of her life, Charles. Their encounter at Andy's Market, where she worked as a cashier, blossomed into a romance. Charles, a regular customer at the store, used his daily cigarette purchases as an excuse to chat until he finally mustered the courage to invite her on a date. They joined in marriage on March 5, 1953, and later were blessed with the birth of two children.

Throughout her younger years, Mae held various jobs. In addition to her time at Andy’s, she worked at Great Lakes Rod and Reel, McDonald’s, and Box and Snacks. However, it was her role as a homemaker, wife, mother, and later grandmother, that Mae found most fulfilling. Her family was the center of her world, and her devotion to them was unrivaled. The summer months provided Mae the opportunity to sit in a lawn chair in the garage surrounded by family members engaged in hours-long conversations, a beloved tradition.

An avid crocheter, Mae found joy in creating until arthritis made it difficult for her to continue. Nonetheless, her hands remained busy with activities she loved, like cheering on her favorite baseball team, the Detroit Tigers, and delighting in the energetic atmosphere of city casinos, where she was known affectionately as “Motor City Mae Mae,”.

Mae Goodin, age 89, of Romulus, passed away at her home at 4:46am on Saturday; April 26, 2025. Her passing was preceded by her parents; her husband: Charles; three brothers: Gwin Murphy, Willard Murphy, and Creed Murphy; three sisters: Bea Brewer, Nelle Brown, and Vina Lee Boatright; and a grandson: Greg Goodin.

Left to cherish her memory are her two children: Gary (Darlene) Goodin, Patricia (Michael) Blake; Granddaughter: Annette and many nieces and nephews.

Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 8:00pm on Friday; May 2, 2025, at Merkle Funeral Service, Romulus (formerly Crane Funeral Home); 36885 Goddard Road, Romulus, Michigan 48174 (734) 941-9200. A Celebration of Her Life will take place at 11:00am on Saturday; May 3, 2025, also at Merkle’s. Procession will follow to Romulus Memorial Cemetery for burial.

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