James R. Godfrey

AIKEN, SC - James Robert Godfrey, Capt. USMC (Ret), 70, beloved husband of Carol Ann Godfrey went home to be with Jesus Wednesday, August 22, 2018. Born in Waynesville, NC, James was the son of the late Robert and Bethel Wilson Godfrey.

     After graduating from Waynesville Township High School in 1966 and Wingate College in 1968, James enlisted in the US Marine Corps where he served for 20 years primarily in California, Vietnam, Okinawa and Hawaii before being assigned to Northern Virginia. During this time, he completed a second degree in Accounting from Chaminade University of Honolulu. In 1988, James began a second career as a senior program manager for information technology companies, assisting the FAA and FBI in the Washington, DC area. In 2003, his retirement to Aiken was interrupted when he returned to the DC area for an additional two years. In 2005, James finally retired to Aiken to enjoy golf and travel with his wife Carol.

     James was a solid rock for Carol, family members and co-workers, patiently listening and gently directing their growth. For Carol, he faithfully and steadfastly strengthened their marriage and their faith in God during their all too short 35 years together.

     In addition to his wife, James is survived by a brother, Samuel Dean Godfrey (Vicky); sisters Deborah Anne Godfrey and Florence Ann Frady; sister-in-law Sharon L. Godfrey Michaud (Tony), wife of deceased brother Billy and brother-in-law Adolph Joseph Manual, Jr. (Marion). He is also survived by his nephews John Ryan Godfrey (Ashley), David Joseph Manual (Angela), James Edwin Manual (Tracey) and niece Branwenn M. Anderson (Bryan), as well as several grandnephews and grandnieces. James is preceded in death by his brother Billy Wilson Godfrey and sister Miriam Elaine Hardin.

     A memorial service will be held Thursday, August 30th at 2 o'clock at St. John's United Methodist Church with the Revs. Dr. Tim McClendon and Nancy Reed officiating. The family will receive friends in Ward Hall following the service.

     In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John's United Methodist Church.

SHELLHOUSE-RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC.