Ray Goins, former Goins Brothers band member and bluegrass legend, died after an extended illness on July 1st, 2007. He was 71 years old.
He played alongside his brother, Melvin Goins for a quarter of a century before health problems prevented him from traveling to shows. He had a heart attack in 1994 and retired in 1997, but he appeared with the group for occassional performances after he stopped traveling.
“Bluegrass music has lost a true friend and one of the pioneers of bolugerass music. Ray and Melvin gave their lives to this style of music. He will be missed by all his peers as a musician, but more importantly, as a good friend,” said Grasstowne band member, Steve Gulley. Gulley and other members of the group Mountain Heart bought their first bus from the Goins Brothers.
The Bluegrass Journal 
I just read that Mr. Goins passed away. I’m so sorry to hear that. I grew up going to bluegrass festivals and concerts in Northeast/MidAtlantic, and met the brothers on my first trip to Nashville about 18 yrs ago.
I still enjoy the Goins Brothers at Mtn. Heritage ARts & Crafts Fest. in Harpers Ferry, and hope they carry on a long time.