Luther Paul Godwin

Luther Paul (Buddy) Godwin, 89, of Poplar Bluff, MO passed away at his home surrounded by family on June 6, 2026.

Buddy was born on March 4, 1937, to Harold and Olive Godwin in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. He married Mary Sandra Henrickson on September 17, 1960.

He graduated from Poplar Bluff Senior High School in 1955. He then went on to play golf at Memphis State before entering the service where he spent 3 years in Germany and played golf for the Air Force Team. After serving, he became a business owner and later managed the Ozark Ridge Golf Course for 32 years. He was also a longtime basketball official.

Buddy had a lifelong passion for the game of golf, finding joy not only in playing, but in sharing his knowledge of the game and experiences with others. When he wasn’t playing golf, he was always sharing stories and telling jokes. He had a sense of humor, generous spirit, and a gift of making everyone feel welcome. He left a lasting impression on everyone who met him, and always had a good joke to bring a smile to everyone’s faces. More than his love of golf was his love of his family and friends. He especially enjoyed telling people about his wife, kids, grandkids and great-grandkids.

His wife of 65 years, Mary, died on May 15, 2026. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Olive Godwin, and a brother, Jim Godwin.

He is survived by his sister, Della Sue (Rick) Wilson; his children Becky (Kent) Eyler, Bobby (Beth) Godwin, Ben (Kelly) Godwin; grandchildren, Aaron Boner, Austin Boner, Sydney (Austin) Stephens, John-Paul Godwin, Sara (Coe) Rose, Joseph (Schae) Eyler and Charly Sue Godwin; great grandchildren, Cooper and Caroline Rose, Jax, Raith and Bryer Stephens and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be on Thursday, June 11, 2026, 9-11am at First Baptist Church in Poplar Bluff, MO. Funeral Services will follow beginning at 11:00am with Jacob Hogg officiating. Burial will take place at Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to serve the family and friends of Luther Paul Godwin. Online condolences can be made at www.cwrfcs.com