James "Rick" Richard Godbold

James Richard “Rick” Godbold, age 66, of Nashville was born to James and Anna Godbold on November 27, 1953 in Lexington, KY. He passed away on September 10, 2020 in Nashville, Tennessee. Rick is preceded in death by his parents James and Anna Godbold and is survived by his husband of 21 years, John Purdom, two sisters, Debbie Doggett and Karen Godbold, four nieces Erin Gockel, Ellen, Ferrand, Emily Warman, and Mallorie Archuleta and a multitude of grand nieces and nephews.

Rick was a bright light and open heart in the world and greeted others with a smile, a kind word, and the best hugs. Rick loved frogs and loved collecting frog statues that caught his eye. He loved the movie A Christmas Story and frequently forced his family to watch it endlessly on Christmas Day. He loved doing home improvement projects so the home improvement stores were his favorite place to go. He spent much of his time helping to support organizations his husband belonged to and attended rugby games and helped in the 5th Section of Nashville in Harmony. Rick worked as a project manager for many organizations over the years and was currently employed by the State of Tennessee. Rick was a kind and genuine person who brought so much to every occasion, we will miss the smile, his, wit, and the kindness he showed.

In lieu of flowers, go outside and plant something living that will offer the world beauty and return to remind you each year. Also, please donate to the cancer research or assistance group of your choice. We are all in this together and each step forward and innovation advances us all towards the eventual eradication of this disease that effects so many.