With deepest sorrow we at Henryhand Funeral Home regret to announce the passing of John Wilson (JW) Godwin, 90, of Lake City, SC, who passed away on Wednesday, May 13, 2026.

Life Reflections

Mr. John Wilson "JW" Godwin, 90, transitioned peacefully from labor to reward on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. Born on June 26, 1935, in Florence County, South Carolina, he was the son of the late Clyde Godwin and Viola McClam Godwin, who both preceded him in death.

JW attended Florence County Public Schools during his early years, but before completing his education, he left school to help support and work alongside his family on the family farm. From humble beginnings, he developed a remarkable work ethic that would define his entire life. He joined Greater St. James AME Church as a child and remained a lifetime member.

Known affectionately by family and friends as "JW," he was a self-taught carpenter and brick mason whose hands built not only homes and structures, but also a legacy of hard work, perseverance, and determination. A man of many talents, JW firmly believed that "a man must work if he wanted to eat," a lesson he faithfully instilled in his son, grandsons, and all who came behind him.

JW loved deeply and wholeheartedly, though his way of expressing love was often unconventional and sometimes misunderstood. His only son was proudly known as his "pal," and his daughters were truly his crowning glory. He took immense pride in each of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, celebrating their individual gifts, talents, and accomplishments. With a smile and quiet confidence, he would often say there was "a little of him in all of them."

A man of few words, JW did not care much for unnecessary conversation or small talk. If a phone call lingered too long, he would simply hand the phone to the nearest person and declare, "I'm tired of talking, now."

During the last two years of his life, JW devoted much of his time to imparting wisdom and sharing his faith with his children and grandchildren. He frequently spoke about how blessed he was and often reminded those around him that he had everything he needed. He loved quoting scripture and would enthusiastically follow it with the phrase, "That's BIBLE right there; THAT'S BIBLE!" He knew the Lord for himself and freely shared his knowledge and testimony with anyone willing to listen.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by the love of his life, his beloved wife, Celestine Brown Godwin; four brothers, Clyde Godwin, Randolph Godwin, Lawrence Godwin, and Timothy Godwin; four sisters, Catherine Washington, Willie Ruth Godwin, Sadie Hanna, and Dorothy Godwin.

Left to cherish his precious memories are his children: Linda (Bruce) Henneghan of Coward, South Carolina. In 1956 he married Celestine Brown Godwin, and to this union were born their son, Melvin (Catherine) Godwin of Florence, South Carolina; Elect Lady Sheryl Singletary (Pastor Mack Singletary) of Lake City, South Carolina and Felicia Godwin of Lake City, South Carolina. He also leaves to cherish his memory his devoted stepdaughter, Glendora Hanna of Lake City, South Carolina.

He also leaves behind a loving legacy through his grandchildren: Marvin (Natalia) Godwin, Whittney (Craig) McNeal, Michael Godwin, Marcus Singletary, Lucas Singletary, Jennifer Singletary, Jessica (Toledo) Chillous, Alexia Singletary, John Singletary, Chastity Barnes, Latron (Kara) Barnes, Shekela Barnes-Scott, Ava Henneghan, Glenda Brown, Anthony Hanna,and Kelvin Hanna.

John (JW) was also blessed with 37 cherished great-grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren whom he loved dearly.

He is also survived by a sister, Helen Thompson of Killeen, TX; sister-in-law, Leslie Godwin of Charleston, SC;  brothers-in-law, Eddie Hanna of Florence, SC and Learonie (Lia) Brown of Summerville, SC; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbors, and friends who will forever treasure his wisdom, humor, strength, and enduring love. Though JW has departed this earthly life, the lessons he taught, the faith he shared, and the love he carried in his own unique way will continue to live on through the generations that follow him. His life was a testimony of hard work, resilience, faith, and family.

"Well done, thy good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23

All arrangements and professional services have been entrusted to Henryhand Funeral Home of Lake City, SC. 843-354-2292 .