John Allen Godwin, Jr.

John A. Godwin, Jr., age 90, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2026, in Lee, Massachusetts. Born on June 16, 1935, in Long Island City, New York, John lived a life devoted to his family, community, and career.

A graduate of Kingston High School in 1954, Hall of Fame inductee, his ability to win basketball games with 36 point sprees and shots at the buzzer were legendary. He continued playing in college and the Marines. John attended SUNY New Paltz Teachers College until 1956 when he joined the U.S. Marine Corps. Later graduating from LeMoyne College Syracuse, New York, in 1962. John’ s career in sales and marketing took him primarily to Albany, NY. He worked many years for independent publishing companies specializing in tax law, labor relations, business regulations, and public policy.

John proudly served his country as a U.S. Marine at Camp LeJeune from 1956 to 1958. His time in the military instilled lifelong values and camaraderie.

A dedicated community member, John had a passion for coaching and organizing activities that brought people together. He coached Lee Little League baseball teams co- founded the Lee Tennis Association and the Men’s Over-30 Basketball League. He also cherished organizing tailgate football picnics, family camping trips, Cape Cod vacations, and attending Tanglewood concerts with loved ones.

A man of faith, John was a devoted communicant of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Stockbridge.

He is survived by his brother James Godwin and wife Linda; sister-in-law Patricia Godwin; his children Brigette Godwin; Timothy Godwin; John Godwin and wife Kelly (Saville) Godwin; and seven grandchildren: Alana Young; Cailin Young; Rachel Godwin and husband Clem Ferris; Lucas Godwin; Kyle Godwin and fiancée Kayanna Black; Lilly Godwin; and Harper (Utenis) Godwin. He was predeceased by his former wife Terry O’Reilly Godwin in 2004. His brother, William Godwin also just passed on June 9, 2026.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, June 18th from 4 - 6 PM at Kelly Funeral Home, 3 Main Street, Lee, MA.  A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, June 19th, at 10 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 11 Elm Street, Stockbridge, MA. Burial will take place at a later date in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Kingston, NY.

John will be remembered as a beloved father, grandfather, brother, coach, and friend whose legacy of love and dedication lives on through those who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his passing.

Donations in his memory may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in c/o the Kelly Funeral Home, 3 Main Street, Lee, MA, 01238.