Helen R. Godby

January 25, 1934 – June 12, 2018

Helen Rowena Godby passed away at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction, CO on June 12, 2018 after a short illness. She was 84 years old. Helen lived her entire life in Fruita and Grand Junction until she moved to Delta with her beloved “Little Dog”, Brutus, 2 years ago.

Helen was born in Fruita, CO. on January 25, 1934 to Dee. L and Jewell I. Smith and was the oldest of five siblings. She spent her childhood in Fruita, attended and graduated from Fruita Union High School in 1952. On May 23, 1953 Helen married William (Bill) Godby in Grand Junction.

As Bill completed his military service stationed in Yuma, AZ, Helen was by his side from 1953 – 1955 where their first son, Stephen was born. Once back home in Colorado, a second son, David was born and shortly after that their family was complete with the arrival of their daughter, Karen.

With Bill’s job in road construction, he traveled extensively, and Helen stayed home raising their children. Helen was a homemaker her whole life and enjoyed canning fresh fruits and vegetables from the local farmers, hosting family gatherings, raising three children and attending church.

When the children were raised, Helen joined Bill in his travels in CO, NM, UT, and AZ. After Bill’s retirement the couple packed up their camper and made a long-anticipated trip up the Alcan Highway, joining a tour group to see Canada and Alaska.

Bill and Helen enjoyed camping and fishing during their retirement years and continued traveling to Quartzsite, AZ each year for the warmer climate during the winter time.

Helen was a founding member of the Pear Park Baptist church, which was dear to her heart.

Helen is preceded in death by her husband Bill, her parents, two brothers, her son Stephen and her son David. She is survived by her daughter Karen Shaffstall of Grand Junction, brother Jerry D. (Eddie) Smith of Grand Junction, and sister Joan (Ron) Quest of Cedaredge, six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Contributions may be made in Helen’s memory to Pear Park Baptist Church, 3102 E Road, Grand Junction, CO 81504.

Funeral service will be held at Pear Park Baptist Church on Tuesday, June 19, 2018 at 10:00. Visitation will be held at the church immediately preceding the service from 9:00 to 10:00. Graveside service will follow immediately at Memorial Gardens.