Richard "Rick" Edward Godwin
January 12, 1946 ~ April 24, 2026
Born in: Nash County, North Carolina
Resided in: Rocky Mount, North Carolina
ROCKY MOUNT – Richard “Rick” Edward Godwin, age 80, passed away on Friday, April 24, 2026. Born in Nash County, NC on January 12, 1946, he was the son of the late Edward Gray Godwin and Olivia Frazier Godwin. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Doris Ann Johnson Godwin; his brothers, Manley Gray Godwin and Marlton “Al” Godwin and his sister, Minnie Jane Godwin.
Rick was a proud native of Rocky Mount; a place he always called home. He honorably served his country in the United States Army, spending a year in Vietnam with courage and dedication. Following his service, Rick built a strong and faithful career in the railroad industry, where he worked for over 30 years in various roles. Known for his lively spirit and unforgettable personality, he earned the nickname “Wild Man” among his colleagues. After retiring he maintained close friendships with his railroad buddies enjoying weekly breakfast. Outside of work, Rick found great joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially fishing and listening to old country music and a mix of other oldies. Rick cheered on his beloved Carolina Tar Heel Basketball, along with his other favorite sports teams, the Yankees and the Redskins. After the passing of his beloved wife, Doris, Rick continued to embrace life, often spending Friday nights dancing at the Moose Lodge. Above all, he cherished his children and grandchildren. He made it priority to attend sporting events and vocal performances of his grandkids whenever he could, always showing his unwavering love and support.
Rick is survived by his son, Derrick Godwin and wife, Ashley, of Nashville; his daughter, Lindsay Godwin Hill and husband, Tim, of Tarboro; his grandchildren, Bobby and Ashtyn; Nathan, Trevor, and Julianna Hill; and many nieces and nephews.
A Funeral Service to celebrate Rick’s life will be held on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at 3:00 PM at West Edgecombe Baptist Church, 13821 NC Hwy. 43, North, Rocky Mount, NC 27801 with Pastor Steve Webb and Pastor Matthew Mayo officiating. A visitation will follow the service in the Sanctuary of West Edgecombe Baptist Church until 5:30.
Burial will be Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Erwin Memorial Park, 506 W A St, Erwin, NC 28339.
The family would like to thank the staff of The Bridges of Hendricks Creek for their love and care over the past few years. Your dedication to Daddy is much appreciated.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Rick’s memory to West Edgecombe Baptist Church, 13821 NC Hwy. 43, North, Rocky Mount, NC 27801.
Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.
Services
Funeral Service: Wednesday, April 29, 2026 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
West Edgecombe Baptist Church
13821 NC Hwy. 43, North
Rocky Mount, NC 27801
Visitation: Wednesday, April 29, 2026 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm
West Edgecombe Baptist Church
13821 NC Hwy. 43, North
Rocky Mount, NC 27801
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Charities
The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in Richard "Rick" Edward Godwin 's name.
West Edgecombe Baptist Church
13821 NC Hwy. 43, North
Rocky Mount,
NC
27801
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Richard “Rick” Edward Godwin. Loved our laughs, talks, and dances we shared on Friday nights. I will be making a $100 donation in his name to “The Rocky Mount Moose Lodge #938” in memory of “Rick”. Sorry to the Family for their loss. God Bless you all. ❤️🙏🏻❤️