John Franklin Godbey, age 91, of Sissonville, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026, following a short illness. Born on June 20, 1934, in Charleston, West Virginia, John made his home in Sissonville for the past 58 years—a community he deeply loved and faithfully served.

John was widely known and affectionately remembered as "Mr. Godbey," a title that reflected the deep respect and admiration held for him by generations of students, colleagues, and families within the Kanawha County school system. Despite the honor, John would quickly and humbly insist, "Just call me John," a reflection of the kindness, humility, and approachability that defined his life.

A lifelong learner and educator, John graduated with honors from Dunbar High School in 1952, where he proudly participated in football, basketball, and track. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Arts from West Virginia State College in 1958 and later completed a Master of Arts degree from Marshall University Graduate School in 1965.

John devoted more than three decades to public education, serving Kanawha County Schools from 1958 to 1989. His career included roles as a teacher, counselor, and vice principal at Sissonville High School, followed by his tenure as principal (1975–1989) of Sissonville Junior High School. He was admired not only for his leadership and professionalism, but for his genuine care for students—listening patiently, encouraging growth, and guiding countless young lives with wisdom, compassion, and integrity. Many former students and colleagues continued to speak highly of John long after their school years, a testament to the lasting impact of his life's work.

Beyond education, John was deeply rooted in his faith and community. He faithfully attended Humphreys Memorial Church, where he taught Sunday School for many years and quietly lived out his Christian values through service, generosity, and love for others. He was known as a good listener, a helper, and a steady presence—someone others could always count on.

John enjoyed the outdoors and cherished time spent hunting, fishing, and camping. He loved attending sporting events, especially those involving his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Family was the great joy of his life, and he took immense pride in every generation.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Garley and Margaret "Maggie" Godbey; his beloved wife of 70 years, Marguerite Godbey; and his brother, Jack Godbey.

He is survived by his daughter, Joan (Michael) Hathaway of Red House, WV; his son, Burl Leslie Godbey of Louisa, KY; his grandchildren, Megan (Dylan) Harrison of Red House, WV, and John (Haley) Hathaway of Red House, WV; and five great-grandchildren: Madden Harrison, Delaney Harrison, Tate Hathaway, Palmer Hathaway, and Hayes Harrison, expected March 2, 2026—all of Red House, WV. He is also survived by his brother, William "Bill" Godbey of Winfield, WV; his sister, Nancy Bowen of Durand, MI; and many loving nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Humphreys Memorial Church, 8342 Sissonville Drive, Charleston, WV 25320, with Rev. George Webb officiating. Friends and family may gather for visitation from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow at Grandview Memorial Park in Dunbar, WV.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Humphreys Memorial Church, where John faithfully worshiped and taught for many years.

John will be remembered for his unwavering kindness, compassionate heart, servant leadership, quiet faith, and the countless lives he touched as an educator, mentor, friend, and family man. His legacy lives on in the students he guided, the family he loved, and the community he served so faithfully.

Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.longfisherfuneralhome