Arxavia Earl Godfrey, a beloved mother, grandmother, aunt and friend, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2025, just two days shy of her 87th birthday. Born on March 3, 1938, to Mattie and Jerome Burks, Arxavia's life was a testament to resilience, love, and generosity.
At the tender age of 11, Arxavia lost her mother. She then faced a significant challenge when she broke her hip while riding a bike, but she overcame it with her indomitable spirit. She then moved to Los Angeles to live with her father, where she had the unique experience of playing with the children of movie stars. At the age of 13, she moved to Marshall, Texas to live with her paternal grandparents, where she met her future husband, Grover C. Godfrey. She graduated from Pemberton High School in Marshall in 1957 and went on to attend Prairie View University, majoring in Textile Arts.
On January 17, 1958, Arxavia married Grover. The family relocated to Hooks, Texas in 1962, a move Arxavia initially protested but ultimately embraced. Together they raised eight wonderful children. She became an avid member of the Hooks Garden Club, nurturing her passion for flowers and plants, while her active participation in the Women's Auxillary Club reflected her philanthropic nature.
Arxavia was a devoted member of Cedar Grove Baptist Church. She served as a chaperone and coordinator of the youth choir, Zion District Congress youth chairman, and taught Sunday school for many years. Her dedication to her faith and community alike was evident in her many contributions.
Arxavia worked for the Red River Army Depot for 28 years, where she also served on the board of the EEOC.
Her hobbies included sewing, ceramics, crocheting, journaling, and working on Sudoku puzzles. She took great joy in organizing family reunions and was always ready to help those in need, whether by providing transportation to medical appointments, offering financial assistance, or even sheltering them in her home.
Arxavia is preceded in death by her parents, Jerome and Mattie Burks, as well as her beloved siblings: Willie D. Burks, Gwendolyn Brannon, Mable Burks, Edith Miller, and Jerome Burks Jr.
She is survived by her husband, Grover Godfrey and children: Orlando Godfrey (Robbie); Darren Godfrey (Lisa); Sanciarhea Jones; Garver Godfrey; Richard Godfrey (Denise ); Yalani Godfrey; Shynae Godfrey (Julie Jacobson); and Milton Godfrey. Arxavia was also the proud grandmother of 23 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
The family wishes to express gratitude to Hazel Pickings for her loving assistance and caring companionship.