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BORN
1930
DIED
2017
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Thomas Godwin Obituary
"Buddy"
We celebrate the life of Thomas L. Godwin ("Buddy"), 86, who was born April 5, 1930, lived his entire life in Pensacola, FL, and died February 14, 2017. To those that know him, it is no surprise that Buddy went to his eternal home in heaven on Valentine's Day to be with his forever sweetheart and wife of 63 years, Arlean Conti Godwin who preceded him in death 15 months ago. The family of Buddy and Arlean are very thankful to the Lord that like Arlean, Buddy passed peacefully during his sleep and did not suffer any illnesses.
Buddy is survived by their eleven children: Mickey Godwin (Carol), Tony Godwin (Judy), Theresa Grice, Buddy Godwin (Dee), Tommy Godwin (Carla), Vincent Godwin (Susan), David Godwin (Denise), Dennis Godwin, Trina Godwin (Gary Muller), Todd Godwin (Nikki), and Sheree' Welch (Eric). He was PawPaw to 19 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren. He is also survived by sister, Linda Averill Bell (Pete) and sisters-in-law, Margie Godwin and Brenda Henderson. He was preceded in death by parents, Murray Godwin and Frances Godwin Henderson, and brothers, Leon Godwin, Laverne Godwin (Gwen), Francis "Skeeter" Henderson, and son-in-law, Tommy Grice.
As a founding member of St. Anne's Catholic Church in Bellview, Buddy was known as one of the main builders and designer of the St. Anne's Round-up buildings and one of the chefs of the best BBQ beef at the BBQ Beef Shack. He was a devoted usher for many years and many fondly remember his beautiful voice as he sang the hymns and read the readings at the early mass.
Buddy served the community for his entire life, retiring from the Escambia County Building Inspection Department after 28 years, prior to that he worked for the Pensacola Housing Authority 25 years. He was known as a kind and caring person with a great work ethic who was always there for the builders no matter the time of day.
A memorial mass will be held on Monday, February 20th, at 1:00 pm at St. Anne's Catholic Church in Bellview with a celebration of life to follow in the Family Life Center. All arrangements are coordinated by Waters & Hibberts Funeral Home of Pensacola, FL.
The Godwin family would like to thank Rev. Fr. John Licari and the many family and friends for the outpouring of love and kindness during this time of grief.
To send condolences please visit www.watersandhibbert.com
WATERS & HIBBERT FUNERAL HOME is in charge of arrangements.
Express your condolences in our guestbook at pnj.com/obits
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Godwin
Sponsored by Waters & Hibbert Funeral Home - Pensacola.
C. Bucci
April 6, 2017
I'm sorry to not have known "Mr. Godwin" died. I'm sorry to have not kept in touch over the years. My dad is Tony Bucci and I have many pictures of him and Mr. Godwin cooking at the Roundup from the 60s- early 70's. My condolences to the family.
Richard & Darlene Fillingim
February 22, 2017
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
"Brothers in Christ" St.Michael's
February 20, 2017
Sympathy and condolences to the Godwin family. Buddy was a great gentleman. He contributed much to the "St. A Round-Up. God Speed.
Lissa Henderson/Higdon
February 20, 2017
My heart goes out to ALL my cousins but hes with the love 0f his life Aunt Lean Iwill never forget Sundays dinners of fried chicken dinners and swimming. I love you all and am very sorry I couldn't make it My prayers are with you all
February 20, 2017
Arlene, our prayers are with you and the family...
It doesn't seem like its been 32 yrs since he was the head inspector on our home........
Larry ( Scooter) & Karon Pursell
Gina Coggins
February 19, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family during this difficult time.
MaryPat Forgie
February 17, 2017
My prayers are with your family. I am sorry for your loss especially since it is so close to the loss of your mother, which makes it harder to bear.
MaryPat Forgie
Marcie Walker
February 17, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Scott and Marcie Walker
Nancy Braun
February 16, 2017
Teresa my heart breaks for you and will be praying for your family.
Sharlene Wingate
February 16, 2017
To the Godwin family: I am so sorry about Buddy's passing, but starting on Valentine's Day, he has been with God and the love of his life, Arlean. ♡♡♡
Theresa Grice
February 16, 2017
Daddy, so glad I spent all day with you on Sunday, I will treasure that memory forever , we had the best time riding to the beach listening to George Jones old songs.. miss you already daddy, kiss momma and the love of my life Tommyfor me . I will see all of you again...
Jennifer Hardy
February 16, 2017
We love the Godwin's as our own family and are so sorry for y'all's loss. I hope you can find comfort in knowing he is with Nanny and the Lord. What a amazing place to be!
-The Hardy's (Mike, Jen, Shelby, and Paxton)
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