John Melbourne Godbee, age 84, joined his Lord and Savior and his loved ones in heaven on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, passing peacefully at home, surrounded by love. Graveside service was held Monday, March 23, at 12 p.m. at Screven Memorial Cemetery with Reverend Scott Krug officiating. Family greeted friends at the gravesite.
Pallbearers were Richard Godbee, Michael Boyd, Mack Chivers, David Cooper, Kenneth Godbee and Brody Ondriezek. Honorary pallbearers were Wendell Wood, Robert McBride, Von Sheffield, Mark Sheffield, Jeff Godbee, Alton Coursey, Carolyn Johnson, James Roberts, Frank Powel, Curtis Roberts, and Dr. Wayne Morris.
John was born September 23, 1941, in Sylvania, to the late Joseph Henry Godbee, Sr and Mabel Oglesby Godbee. Melbourne’s relationship with Jesus Christ and his strong faith in Him, was the secure foundation of his life. As a farmer, he had a love for raising cattle, as well as, found God’s Grace and Gloryin the fertile soil of our earth. He believed that the door to Heaven was open and waiting for him, and for all who believe. Mr. Godbee is preceded in death by his parents; first wife and mother of his children, Glenda Godbee; brother, Raiford Godbee, Roy Godbee, Ralph Godbee and JH (Jiggs) Godbee, Jr. and Wayne Godbee; sisters, Lena Godbee, Reba Godbee, Julia Godbee, Eunice G. Coursey, Barbara G. Boyd, Evelyn G. Cooper and Myrtle G. Sheffield; and son-in-law, Joseph Ross Scott.
Mr. Godbee is survived by his wife, Brenda; four children, Lori Scott, Lisa Harper (Bill), Melinda Sutton (Russ) and John Godbee (Patti); two grandchildren, Mary Helen Bozard (Alan) and Allison Scott Butler (Caleb); great-grandchildren, Brody Ondriezek, Berklee Bozard, Jessie Kate Butler and Carsyn Butler; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Chapman Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
