Willard Lanier Godsey entered into rest on January 20, 2022 at home in the presence of his loving family at the age of 91. Lanier, also known as Papa to his loved ones, was not a stranger to hard work. He spent his adult life as a partner in Alford Lumber Mill. Not ready for retirement when the mill closed in the 1980s, he chose to continue working for Addison Truss Company for many years until his retirement. Never idle for very long, Lanier owned chicken houses, cattle and farmed after working his day job.
Lanier loved to travel with Betty, his bride of 72 years, in his RV. They traveled with friends and family across the United States making beautiful memories as they went. Lanier also loved Alabama College football. He followed the Crimson Tide faithfully and could be found in front of his television cheering them on. Even when his eyesight and hearing were failing, he would watch his team and catch what moments of glory he could. Win or lose, he was proud of the Crimson Tide.
More than anything, Papa loved his family. His children and grandchildren could count on him regardless of the situation. He was more than ready and able to lend a helping hand for his family, friends and strangers. He volunteered to help in tornado and hurricane ravaged areas in his younger years. He helped many local people in need. He was an example of generosity in time, talent and resources for his family and friends to follow.
Papa loved his church, Houston Memorial United Methodist, and his church family. He worked tirelessly on church projects and supported it faithfully. He loved Jesus and also loved hearing the old gospel songs sung by the congregation. He lived his life as a testament to that love of Jesus and living a life for Him. His family mourns his loss but is comforted in the knowledge that he is resting in the arms of Jesus now.
He is survived by: Betty Godsey, loving wife; sons: Johnny Godsey (Joanne), Lanier Godsey, Jr. (Cheryl), Clint Godsey (Joyce) and Rex Godsey (Karen); daughter: Debbie Lester (Tom); grandchildren: Bryan Godsey, Jaime Godsey Watkins, Nathaniel Godsey (Elizabeth), Amy Lester Parks (Jamie), Laurel Godsey Simmons (Lee J.), Kristina Godsey Darby, Erin Godsey, Kelley Lester, Missy Godsey Stephens (Ernie) and Ashley Godsey; 15 great-grandchildren; brother: Carl Godsey; sisters-in-law: Owene Godsey and Peggy Owens and devoted friends: William and Mona Schubert
He is preceded in death by parents: Clinton and Martha Godsey; in-laws: Owen and Mary Alford; grandmother: Ira Alford and grandson: Jarrod Godsey
The family respectfully requests that all who attend please wear a face covering and practice social distancing.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Children’s Rehabilitation Services (P. O. Drawer 2328
Birmingham, AL 35201-2428).
