James "Jim" Earl Godwin lived a life characterized by dedication to his family, service to his country, and a commitment to his work. As a beloved son, husband, and father, Jim's journey from his roots in Nash County through his distinguished military service and subsequent career left a lasting impact on those around him.
Early Life, Education, and Family
James Earl Godwin, affectionately known as Jim, was born on March 16, 1946, in Nash County, North Carolina. He was the youngest of four children born to Mavis Hill Godwin and the late Willie Narvin Godwin. Jim grew up alongside his older siblings, Willie Eugene "Gene" Godwin, Charles Randall Godwin and Dianne Godwin.
Jim completed his early education at Coopers High School in Nash County. Driven by a desire for further learning, he continued his academic pursuits at East Carolina University.
Meeting Joan and Military Service
It was at the beach, during Joan Ellis Bass's spring break, that Jim met the woman who would become his wife. They began dating, building a connection that would lead to their future together. Joan, born on November 12, 1951, also hailed from Nash County, North Carolina, and was the daughter of Russell and Frances Martin Bass.
Jim's commitment to service extended beyond his personal life into a distinguished period with the United States Navy. He honorably enlisted on October 13, 1966, in Nash County. After completing his basic training at the Great Lakes Naval Training Center, he was stationed in Long Beach, California. Jim served aboard the USS Bronstein, a destroyer escort that was part of the Pacific Fleet. The USS Bronstein, a vessel built at Avondale Shipyards in Louisiana and launched on March 31, 1962, at Charleston, South Carolina, carried a crew of 16 officers and 180 enlisted men, playing a vital role in naval operations. Jim received an honorable discharge on July 2, 1970.
During his service, Jim was recognized for his courage and dedication with several significant medals, including:
- The National Defense Service Medal
- The Vietnam Service Medal
- Two Bronze Star Medals with "V" device, denoting valor for particular instances of combat heroism
- The Vietnam Campaign Medal
Marriage, Family, and Career
Following his military service, Jim and Joan Ellis Bass married on January 4, 1975, at Highland United Methodist Church in Raleigh, North Carolina. Their union brought them two children: Kelly Godwin, born in 1981, and Christopher Godwin, born in 1985.
Jim dedicated his professional life to Wildwood Lamp Company, where he worked steadfastly up until the time of his passing.
Later Years and Legacy
James "Jim" Earl Godwin passed away at the age of 61 on November 16, 2007, in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. He was laid to rest at Evergreen Memorial Park in Wilson, North Carolina, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, service, and devotion to his family.