Godbold: Former CC executive director dies after long illness

Jim Godbold, former USMCCCA executive director dies at age 84.

It is my sad duty to announce that former USMCCCA Executive Director James “Jimmie” Godbold, 84, of Tomball, TX, died April 15, after a long illness.  Jim became executive director of the Association in 1992, taking over from Bob Springer and held the position until 1997, relinquishing it to Don Gee. 

I spoke with Jim’s wife, Joy, who said that he really enjoyed working for the organization and that he met some wonderful people.  She said that he had been in ill health for some with complications from diabetes.  Also, he fell after Christmas this year cracking some ribs and subsequently developed fluid on his lungs.  Following a lengthy stay in the hospital he was released to his home where he died.  A floral tribute has been sent from the Association for the Memorial Service May 2. 

His obituary follows: James Morris “Jimmie” Godbold, 84, died peacefully at his home in Tomball, TX following a long illness on April 15. 
A retired Marine Corps colonel, Jim was a veteran of World War II and the Korean War.  He was a decorated Marine Corps pilot, winning two Distinguished Flying Crosses and numerous Air Medals from Pacific aerial combat. Following his military service, he became a nationally-known photo journalist and was named first Director of Photography at National Geographic Magazine.  He subsequently published newspapers in Illinois and Texas, including the Conroe Daily Courier, the Tomball Tribune, and the Woodlands Sun which he founded in 1973. He is survived by his “bride” of 64 years, Joy; three children, Jim Godbold Jr. of Eugene, OR, Jon Godbold of Tomball, and Jan Googer of Tomball. A committal service with military honors will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 1 at Houston National Cemetery.  A memorial service celebrating his life will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 2 at Tomball United Methodist Church. 
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). 

–Jack T. Paxton, Executive Director