Jerry Harold Godwin

It is with both heavy hearts and fond memories that we share the passing of Jerry Harold Godwin, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, who passed away peacefully on December 22nd, 2024, at the age of 78.

Jerry was a true original - whether it was buying and selling fast cars; being the ever-generous host at a social event, ordering two of every appetizer on the menu for the entire table to share; celebrating time with friends and family from across his lifetime over laughter, food and spirits; or collecting leather jackets and snake-skinned cowboy boots. Jerry had an innate curiosity that led him to a lifetime of tinkering. Souping up his cars to be as fast as possible, making rings out of quarters, etching glass bottles with chili peppers, or creating walking sticks out of shovel handles, his garage and work shop were a testament to his current hobbies - a place filled with half-finished projects and tools of every kind. He was a man who found joy in the process, always striving to satisfy his curiosity.

Born on December 19, 1946, Jerry grew up in Kenly, NC alongside his devoted brother, Grover Godwin, and their numerous cousins in the Godwin clan. Jerry was a source of both mischief and inspiration, bringing people together with his endless knowledge and zest for adventure. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, skiing, tennis, golf, racing, cooking and reading. Jerry cherished family gatherings, and his home was often a welcoming hub where everyone, young and old, felt valued and entertained. Jerry was a man whose generosity left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Jerry attended Glendale High School in Kenly, NC, NC State University, Syracuse University and The Harvard Business School. He served in the Army Reserves for six years.

A good business mind enabled Jerry to enjoy an illustrious career involving international travel to more than 100 countries. Starting in sales service at Lufkin Rule in Apex, NC he became president of Cooper Group in Raleigh, NC; followed by Champion Sparkplug in Toledo, OH; Cooper Automotive in Chesterfield, MO; and finally settling back in eastern North Carolina to serve as president of Murphy Family Farms (Rose Hill) and Murphy Brown (of Smithfield Foods in Warsaw). Many of the connections he made through travel and his career led to friendships that would remain with him into retirement.

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth (Libby) Dolin Godwin of 41 years; his sons, Jeremy (Lauran) Godwin of Charlotte, NC and Josh Godwin, of Weaverville, NC. He is also survived by his brother, Grover (Susan) Godwin; his cherished grandchildren, (Mary Gale, Max, and Griffin); and his vast network of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever hold him in their hearts. He is preceded in death by his parents, Grover Harold and Geraldine Pittman Godwin and his first wife, Gale Harvell Godwin.

A celebration of Jerry's life will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2025 at 11:00 AM at McEwen Funeral Home - Pineville Chapel, 10500 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28210. A reception will follow at Carmel Country Club, 4735 Carmel Road, Charlotte, NC 28226.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made as follows:

In honor of Jerry and Libby's support for educating teachers at NC State University. The Jerry and Elizabeth Godwin Scholarship Endowment Fund. (https://give.ncsu.edu/education)

Or in thanksgiving for Jerry's care at Levine and Dickson Hospice House at Southminster, 8919 Park Road, Suite 1000, Charlotte, NC 28210 (https://www.viagiving.org/donating)

The family thanks everyone for their love and support during this difficult time. Special thanks to Dr. Ricci, Dr. Brancato, Dr. Griffith, nurse Rhonda, OT Lizzy and all the nurses, PT's and OT's who cared for Jerry.

Rest in peace, Jerry. Your legacy of curiosity and generosity will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing you.

Online condolences may be shared at www.McEwenPinevilleChapel.com