Betty Jean Marsh Godwin

Mrs. Betty Jean Godwin passed away early Tuesday morning, July 7, 2026. She is survived by her daughter, Teresa Clarkson; her son, Jonathan Godwin; and her brother, Eddie Marsh Jr. She also leaves behind two grandsons, Justin and Ryan Clarkson; a granddaughter, Rylee Godwin; and a great-grandson, Henry Clarkson.

Born December 7, 1938, in Lake City, SC, Betty was the eldest of Eddie (Sr.) and Vermelle Marsh’s four children (Betty, Frances, Linda, and Eddie Jr.). She graduated from Lake City High in 1957 with high grades, and still had time to help Percy Godwin so that he wouldn’t flunk out. Percy understood what he had, and they married on June 28, 1958, beginning their 66-year partnership.

Sharp with details and numbers, Betty was never without work. She worked for Dr. JD Whitehead's Office, Cook Tire with Smooty Cook, The Carolina Academy (as a teacher’s aide and librarian), Georgann Apparel, and finally at Godwin General Store alongside Percy for almost twenty years. While she would do anything for Percy, she always said her favorite work was at The Carolina Academy. She loved being around “her schoolchildren” and maintained those relationships for years after she left.

She loved to sing—in church or at the piano with her grandkids. She enjoyed most music, except the rock and roll music her children enjoyed when they lived under her roof. She also loved a good conversation. Friends and family knew that if she called—or you called her—it was worth setting aside some time, because she always enjoyed catching up and hearing what was happening in the lives of the people she loved.

Her family was the center of her world, and no role brought her more joy than being MeMa. Whether she was pretending to eat a fake meal prepared by her granddaughter, Rylee, or pretending to be a patient for her great-niece, Emma, she played her roles with fervor. She never turned down a chance to visit Jonathan and take care of Rylee, or miss out on a big event for Justin and Ryan. She treasured every photograph she could get her hands on. Pictures lined her home and filled albums, each one preserving a memory or celebrating someone she loved.

Though small in stature, she was fierce in spirit. Generations of Carolina Academy students remember the librarian who expected respect and wasn't afraid to enforce the rules. They knew better than to test her patience. But beneath that firm exterior was a heart motivated by protection and care. Perhaps because she was the oldest sibling, looking out for others came naturally to her. She was dependable, protective, and deeply committed to the people she loved.

She was quick-witted with a slightly irreverent sense of humor. She had a knack for finding the unexpected joke in everyday moments, often delivering it with perfect timing and a gleam in her eye.

Betty Jean Godwin was a landmark along McCutcheon Road. If her car was in the driveway, neighbors knew they were welcome to stop in for a visit. Though the road still hums with traffic, it feels just a little lonelier now that she is gone.

The family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to Emma McFadden, Janette Jones (Ma), and Katherine Singletary. Thank you for your commitment and kindness. We couldn’t have done this without you. A special thank you to Emma, who became a true friend to Betty in her final months when she needed one the most.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Carolina Funeral Home with funeral services to follow at 11:00 AM in the chapel.

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