Mary Ann Godfrey

Mary Ann Godfrey passed away peacefully on February 5, 2026, just two weeks shy of her 85th birthday. She was born Mary Ann Patril on February 19, 1941, in Corsicana, Texas, and was a proud graduate of Corsicana High School. She later earned her Bachelor of Physical Education from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, Texas.

Through her friendship with the late and beloved Ronnie Elizondo (“Big Ron”), she met Lieutenant Thomas J. Godfrey. They were married on February 1, 1964, beginning her devoted life as an Army wife and mother. Military life took her and her family across the country and abroad, living in Alabama, Arizona, Texas, Missouri, Kansas, Germany, and Virginia, before ultimately settling in El Paso, Texas.

Mary Ann was a longtime member of St. Raphael Catholic Church. The family extends special thanks to Father Wilbert for administering last rites.

Following the passing of her husband, beloved “Tom,” Mary Ann lovingly decorated her home in all things Americana as a tribute to his military service and their shared patriotism. She was an active member of the Cathedral Mothers Club. She was also a part of the Fort Bliss Widows Association, where she would often create and prepare themed dishes for the VA Hospital.

Mary Ann treasured her role as a grandmother. Refusing to be called “Grandma,” she was affectionately named “Gammo” by her granddaughter, Kristan Morgan—a name that lovingly stuck. Gammo delighted in the lives of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, cherishing every moment spent with them.

She was preceded in death by her father, Jerry Patril; her mother, Ann Patril; her husband, Lieutenant Colonel Thomas J. Godfrey; her brother-in-law, James Coker and sister-in-law Kay Santos.

Mary Ann (“Gammo”) is survived by her sons, Grey Godfrey (wife Ruth) and Judson Godfrey (wife Rachelle); her daughter, Juli Alexander (husband Chris); her grandchildren, Kristan Morgan (husband Roland), Dylan Godfrey, TJ Alexander, Max Alexander, Oliver Godfrey, and Winnie Lou Godfrey; her great-grandchildren, Charleen Hendryx, Makenzee Morgan, and Dakota Morgan; her sisters, Anita Coker and Jerilynn O’Neal; her brother-in-law, Mike O’Neal.

Mary Ann will be remembered for her devotion to family, her pride in her country, and the love she poured into her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.