Lawrence James Godwin

Doc was born on January 3, 1949, in Sapulpa, Oklahoma, where he spent his childhood. A proud patriot, he joined the United States Navy and served as a U.S. Marine during the Vietnam War. His service was honored with the National Defense Service Medal. Doc carried his commitment to his country with quiet pride and unwavering strength.

After his time in the military, Doc built a life centered around love, family, and the friendships he cultivated through his passion for softball. He retired to Mesa, Arizona, where he found joy on the softball field and camaraderie with his teammates, who became like brothers to him. Doc wasn’t just a player—he was a mentor, a motivator, and a living legend in the community. His presence was larger than life, and his heart even bigger.

He is survived by his devoted wife Betty (Olbert) Godwin of Mesa; his sister Kathryn Marie Raber of Lake Havasu; his brother Daniel Wesley Godwin of Tulsa, Oklahoma; and his children: Alicia and Adam of Shreveport, Louisiana; Teresa Justice of Roseville, Illinois; and Trevor and Travis Justice of Havana, Illinois.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Marie (Ford) Godwin; his grandparents, Arthur and Gertrude Ford of Tyler; and his father- and mother-in-law, Willie of Timewell and Glenna (Olbert) Hodgson of Mesa.

Doc touched countless lives with his kindness, courage, and good humor. He was a true original—a breath of fresh air in this world. Those lucky enough to have known him will carry his memory in their hearts forever. He was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.

"Some heroes wear uniforms; others just carry a glove and a grin. Doc was both."

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