James Theron Godwin

at home on Saturday, February 11. He was preceded in death 52 days prior by his wife of

74 years, Myra Jean Oswald Godwin, also 93.

Born in Quincy, FL, Jim joined the military in 1949 and continued to serve in the Air Force Reserves and rose to the rank of CMSgt in the 94th Tactical Airlift Wing, Senior Enlisted Advisor.

He officially retired in 1988 after a 39 year career. Jim also worked as a deputy for the Gadsden Co. Sheriff’s Dept. before entering the insurance business. He specialized in insuring credit unions through his business CU Limited and proudly retained his insurance license until he died. The Godwins

loved summers in the mountains of Ashe County, NC, where they had a second home for over

30 years.

Jim and Jean were members at Selva Marina Country Club and Neptune Baptist Church for

decades and cherished the many friendships they made there. While Jim was in the reserves,

the Godwins were fortunate to travel the world and brought back many wonderful stories to

share. Accounts of his community service are too numerous to list. From being a BSA

Scoutmaster in 1951 to supporting his favorite political candidates, he was a stalwart citizen and

proud American.

Jim was a friend to all and never met a stranger, which accounts for his success in the Air Force

Reserves and his insurance business. His walls were covered with commendations and he was

very honored to have served his country and helped businesses with their insurance needs. An

avid sports fan, he never forgot a player’s name and was an encyclopedia of statistics. He was

an original Jags fan and was so happy with their finish this year.

The thing he loved most was his time with Jean. They were inseparable and danced their way through life, smiling and laughing the whole way. They will be sorely missed by all who knew them.

In addition to Jean, Jim is preceded in death by his mother Eddie Lee Glisson Godwin, father,

Van T. Godwin and a daughter Van Lee Godwin (2 yrs). He is survived by two daughters,

Cynthia Godwin Payne (Jim) of Quincy FL, and Melody Godwin (Mo Roland) of Atlantic Beach,

FL.

Services will be held at Neptune Baptist Church on Saturday, February 25 at 2pm. In lieu of

flowers, the Godwins ask that donations be made to your local Hospice. Arrangements are under the direction of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, Jacksonville Beach