Grover Cleveland Godfrey, beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle and community leader, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2025, at the age of 86. He was born on May 31, 1938 to Gladys Caldwell Godfrey and Franklin D. Godfrey in Marshall, Texas.
Grover was predeceased by his loving wife, Arxavia E. Godfrey, with whom he shared a profound bond for 67 years, having met in the eighth grade. Together they raised eight children: Orlando Godfrey (Robbie), Darren Godfrey (Lisa), Sanciarhea Jones, Garver Godfrey, Richard Godfrey (Denise), Yalani Godfrey, Shynae Godfrey (Julie Jacobson); and Milton Godfrey. He is also survived by 23 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, all of whom he cherished.
In addition to his wife, Grover was predeceased by three brothers, Franklin Jr. "Sonny Man", Nolan Lincoln "Yard Bird", and Garvery Charles "Bo". His surviving siblings are Margaret Carpenter, Shirley (John) Smith, Phyllis (Willie) Knight, Willard Earl (Reba) Godfrey, Ruthie Jo (Doug) Foreman, and Mable King.

An esteemed educator, Grover's journey of knowledge began at Park Elementary and Newtown Elementary, followed by Pemberton High School, where he distinguished himself as a talented baritone saxophonist, earning 3rd place at the National FFA Talent Playoff in Atlanta, Georgia. He furthered his education at Prairie View A&M College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Vocational Agriculture and a minor in Agriculture in 1962. He later earned a master's degree in vocational agriculture from East Texas State University in 1975, alongside a Midmanagement Certification in 1980.
In 1962, Grover moved to Hooks, Texas where he began a remarkable 35-year teaching career. For 17 years he taught vocational agriculture to high school students. He enthusiastically imparted his knowledge of a variety of subjects including poultry science, animal husbandry, swine production and marketing, electrical wiring, small engine mechanics, braising pipes, carpentry, plumbing, arc and acetylene welding.
In recognition of his leadership and dedication to education, Grover became the first Black principal in Bowie County outside of Texarkana. During his 18 year tenure as principal, Hooks Elementary was recognized by the state of Texas for the outstanding achievement of its African American male students. Grover's leadership and guidance was based on a paradigm of dedication and respect.
Beyond the classroom, Grover was a visionary community leader dedicated to the improvement of the Burns Red Bank community. He was instrumental in organizing and developing the Burns Red Bank water system having collaborated with the FHA and Senator John Tower to realize this vital project. His work provided clean drinking water to 244 families in a 14 square mile area. Remarkably, Grover founded the first volunteer fire department in the community. With the proceeds from the sales of his famous bbq and fried fish, he funded the purchase of a fire truck. He worked tirelessly to improve local infrastructure. He organized the Burns Redbank Community Cleanup and worked with local authorities to maintain the initiative to keep it clean. As some rural dirt roads were impassable after long periods of rain, Grover advocated for paved roads, and additionally installed natural gas lines and electrical wiring in many homes. Further, he brought the Burns Redbank community together to purchase a community center building as a meeting place for adults, senior citizens and children.
A man of faith, Grover served as a deacon at Cedar Grove Baptist Church, a Sunday school teacher, and along with his wife, co-founded a vibrant youth choir which at one time had 58 members.
Grover and Arxavia loved working together on projects big and small. Not only did they make a great team; they made a great impact. Together they planned and hosted numerous family reunions throughout the years. These meaningful reunions became well known for the plentiful, delicious food and the detailed written histories that Grover and Arxavia compiled and shared with the younger generations. The two of them worked on a variety of other community-based projects and activities as well.
Grover was passionate about life. His joy of living shined through his talents and pastimes. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, cooking for friends and family, hunting, and listening to and playing jazz. He created a warm and welcoming home filled with love, laughter, and bountiful food, always encouraging family and friends to gather.
Grover Cleveland Godfrey's legacy of service, love, and commitment to his family and community will forever be remembered by those whose lives he touched. His endearing personality, can-do spirit, and humble nature will continue to inspire the rest of us.