Colleen Kay Godwin

Colleen was born to Wm. F. Daley, Jr. and Patricia (Mackinnon) Daley in Evreux, France, and was their first of two daughters. Growing up on Air Force bases across the United States, she graduated from Concordia Senior High School in 1981. Her passion for the arts blossomed through her involvement in live productions at the Brown Grand Theater, as well as drama and choral performances throughout her academic journey at high school, Cloud County Community College, and other stage opportunities. She pursued higher education at CCCC and Florida State College of Jacksonville, earning an associate degree in education. A lifelong learner, Colleen was passionate about history and the sciences.

For over four decades, Beanie dedicated herself to the restaurant and service industry, embarking on a journey that began in Concordia, Kansas, that eventually led to her to become an integral part of The Plaza's culinary landscape in Kansas City. Her professional pilgrimage landed her at 2 Doors Down and then Carmines Pie House in Riverside, Jacksonville, over 13 years ago. She cherished her role as "the FACE of Carmine’s," nurturing new team members and forming enduring bonds with regular patrons who became like family. Her work was not merely a job; it was a source of joy for both herself and those she served.

Yet, amidst her long career, Colleen’s most cherished vocation was that of a mother. After marrying Lawrence Godwin in 1987, she embarked on a journey to expand their family, eventually welcoming their beloved son, Gabriel Alexander Godwin, into their lives. Colleen considered the day of Alex's arrival as the “the happiest day of my life,” relishing every moment as his devoted mother. Lacrosse games or oboe recitals, she enjoyed it all. She extended her maternal love to everyone in need of a nurturing presence, earning her the title of mom, surrogate mom, stand in mom, and then grandma in so many people’s lives. Shared blood was never necessary to be considered family.

Colleen’s advocacy for the LGBTQIA community was not merely a badge of honor, but a testament to her unwavering compassion. An advocate for others, she was humbled and honored to win “Best Straight Ally '' from The Rainbow Awards, which highlights LGBTQIA friendly people and businesses in North Florida. Her altruism knew no bounds, whether it was supporting marginalized communities, aiding animals in need, or offering a place to stay or her last dollar to someone facing hardship. Her legacy is not just one of selflessness, but of a boundless love that transcended judgment, time, and circumstance. In her passing, Colleen leaves behind this legacy that will continue to resonate with all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

She is preceded in death by her beloved grandparents and her parents, alongside many cherished relatives, friends, and colleagues. She is survived by her beloved son, Alex; her former husband, Larry; her devoted sister Janice; and a host of relatives, chosen family, and lifelong friends.

A viewing to honor Colleen’s memory will be held at Hardage-Giddens Riverside Memorial Park in Jacksonville on Saturday, April 6, 2024, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., followed by a celebration and fundraiser on April 7 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Eclipse Nightclub on St. John’s in Avondale. Church services will take place at 1:00 p.m. on April 27th at St. Elizabeth’s Episcopal Church in Jacksonville. Internment will occur in the third week of August, 2024 in Concordia, Kansas, with further details to be announced.

As we bid farewell to Colleen, we take solace in knowing that her compassionate spirit will continue to guide and inspire us all. May she rest in eternal peace, soaring with her beloved dragons, her legacy forever engraved in the hearts of those she touched.

If you care to make a financial contribution toward final arrangements, please cashapp $DrJanicePimentel, venmo @DrJanicePimentel or zelle 904-962-6401. A final accounting will occur after the estate settles. For floral or plant donations, please direct those to the church for 4/27 services.

Those needing to make travel arrangements, the funeral home offers help with that through the Dignity Memorial® Bereavement Travel Program. Just call 1-800-224-4177 to speak with one of the travel specialists. Should the specialist ask for a reference number or code, please provide 2548.