James G W Godfrey Jr

79, ascended to heaven on 5/23/16 from Largo Medical Center. James was born February 27, 1937 in Ludowici, GA to Rubye Mae and James W. Godfrey Sr. In 1960, James married Fran and 3 years later relocated their family to the Tampa area. Here, they started a family that today consists of 3 daughters, 7 grandchildren and 6 great grand-children. Family was the single most important asset to Jim. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Fran Godfrey, his daughters Sandra Lynn Armstrong, Jamie Godfrey Prior and Kristi Ann Combs; son-in-laws David Nicholson, Dr. Donald Prior and Dr. Wallace Combs and survived by his cherished grandchildren Brittany and Adam Hoots, Alexa and Mike Carrico, Wally Combs, James Combs, Jake Prior, Jack Prior and Kassidy Combs. Also, blessed by his great-children Jacie Hoots, Lily Hoots, Gage Carrico, Levi Carrico, Kaiston Hoots and Lyla Carrico.

He resided in Indian Rocks Beach, FL for 23 years and was a member of Brandon Elks Lodge, NRA, National Guard - Ft. Stewart, Free Masons and Anona Methodist Church. James was a graduate with his MS degree in Math and Science from Georgia Southern University. He was also the owner and operator of Ayres Auto Air, Inc in Tampa, FL.

Known by his grandchildren as 'G', he had a rare distinction of being the toughest man, the best fisherman and smartest person in any room he was in. Although many regarded him as stubborn at times, he was what he referred to as being determined. He never missed an opportunity to share the word of the Lord with all who he came in contact with. Jim was a man of great character, integrity and never hesitated to speak what was on his mind, which is what made him so special. He was disciplined, regimented and patriotic to no end. Always looking for a song and a dance floor to twirl Fran around, he had rhythm.

'G' will be greatly missed by all who knew, loved and cherished him. Visitation will be held at Serenity Funeral Home on Friday, 5/27/16 at 12 PM followed by a funeral service beginning at 2PM. After the service, a celebration of life will take place at Jim's home in Indian Rocks Beach, FL. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to kidSney at 8 Fuller St. Greenville, SC 29605 or visit the website at www.kidSney.org.