David Godby's Obituary
David William Godby, 91 of Centerville, entered fully into the presence of his Lord and Savior on March 6, 2021, at his home. David was born December 20, 1929, in Louisville, KY, the son of Elsie and Robert Otto Godby. He married Helen Irene Paxston November 24, 1950 in Tucson, AZ. David was in the Air Force during the Korean Conflict. He was a radio communicator in a KB-29 that was the first to successfully refuel in mid-air. After his tour of duty in Arizona, England and Alaska, he began his career with the Civil Aeronautics Administration. In 1958, the CAA's powers were transferred to the Federal Administration Agency where he worked as an Air Traffic Controller until he retired in 1970. The family moved to Unionville, IA where they bought a 174 acre farm and raised sheep and other farm animals during his retirement. He drove a bus for the Moravia School District two years before attending Northeast Missouri State University, now Truman State University. He majored in Sociology and Anthropology and graduated Cum Laude. David was greatly involved in the Unionville American Legion, Post #407. He had a great spirit of service as he served as Chaplain and Historian of the chapter. Every year he would set the flags at Taylor Cemetery and was involved yearly in the 5th grade Flag Essay for Moravia CSD. As a life-long member, he served directly for 36 years. A dedicated volunteer, David drove for the Department of Veteran Affairs, transporting veterans to the Des Moines or Knoxville VA from Centerville even though he was in his eighties. One of his favorite stops was the 18-80 Club, where he met with his many friends. Hidden always in his shirt pocket was a written out prayer in case he was asked to pray before the meal. His favorite activities were kayaking, geocaching and taking friends and family on day trips to Bonaparte to watch the boats and enjoy a meal at Bonaparte's Retreat. He loved his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and on most occasions would involve them in his activities. David is survived by his four children: Cheree (Dennis) Mann, Denise McDanel, David (Judy) Godby Jr. and Mike (Becky) Godby; two siblings: Paul (Pam) Godby and Martha (Ed) Allred; 12 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years Helen Godby, brothers: Robert O. Godby Jr., Daniel Anton Godby; sister Irene Ruth Spruill (Howard). David was adored and loved by all who knew him. Until we meet againâ?¦. Funeral service for David will be held at 1:00 on Friday, March 12, 2021 at the Thomas Funeral Home in Centerville. Interment will immediately follow at Eaton Cemetery in Unionville, Iowa. Visitation without family present will be Thursday, March 11, 2021 from 10:00 AM - 5:00, followed by visitation with family present from 5:00 - 7:00 PM. Memorials may be made to the Unionville American Legion or EveryStep Hospice. Condolences may be shared at www.thomasfh.com or www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome. Livestream the service: www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of David Godby please visit our Sympathy Store. Cemetery Details Eaton Cemetery 450th street
Unionville, IA 52594 Visitation (family not present) MAR 11. 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (CST) Thomas Funeral Home - Centerville 501 North 18th StreetCenterville, IA 52544[emailprotected] Visitation with family present MAR 11. 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (CST) Thomas Funeral Home - Centerville 501 North 18th StreetCenterville, IA 52544[emailprotected] Funeral Service MAR 12. 1:00 PM (CST) Thomas Funeral Home - Centerville 501 North 18th StreetCenterville, IA 52544[emailprotected] Interment MAR 12 (CST) Eaton Cemetery 450th streetUnionville, IA 52594
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