Ralph Augustus Godwin, Jr

Ralph Augustus Godwin Jr., 92 of Smithfield passed away on July 12, 2023.  He was born January 8, 1931 in Isle of Wight County to the late Ralph A. Godwin, Sr and India Darden Godwin. Ralph was a loving Son, Husband, Father, Neighbor, and Community Steward.  Ralph was a retired farmer who was recognized for outstanding Conservation in the Farming Community.  He loved and had a passion for farming. Although he began his career with virtually nothing, his entrepreneurial vison led him to become one of the most successful farmers in Isle of Wight County.  Ralph was one of the founding members of Isle of Wight Academy in 1967 and a lifelong member of the Isle of Wight Ruritans.  He served as board member, leader, a fund raiser for Uzzell United Methodist Church.  Ralph served his country in the United States Army where he was stationed in South Korea and held the position of Military Police after the Korean War.  There was no one in the community more generous than Dad.  He helped many individuals and families in innumerable ways.  We would like to thank and acknowledge the professional and compassionate devotion, love, and care demonstrated by the staff at Lake Prince Woods in caring for our dad.  We will be forever grateful.  Ralph was also preceded in death by his wife Dorothy Drake Godwin.  He is survived by two children, Gwen G. Peters of Raleigh, NC, and Milton R. Godwin of Phoenix, AZ; and three grandchildren, Laura Knott (Jake) and Courtney Peters of Raleigh, NC, and Jackson Godwin of Phoenix, AZ. In lieu of flowers the family asks that contributions be made to the charity of one’s choice. A private family service will be held to celebrate our Dad/Papa. Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com.