Eric Godwin

ERIC GODWIN

October 3, 1976 – August 30, 2026

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Eric Godwin, a beloved husband, father, son, grandson, brother, uncle, and friend, who peacefully departed this world on August 30, 2026, after silently battling a terminal illness.

Born in Philippi, WV, Eric lived a life full of love, laughter, hard work, and dedication to his family and friends. He never met a stranger and had a way of making everyone feel like family.

Eric was the cherished son of Don and Michelle Godwin of Myrtle Beach and the late Diane Purkey of Philippi, WV. He was preceded in death by his beloved grandfather, Ralph Godwin; his grandparents, John and Juanita Purkey; his uncle, Charles Purkey; and his uncle and aunt, Elmer and Georgia Godwin.

Eric is survived by his wife and high school sweetheart, Sarah Godwin, and her three daughters: Ariana (“A,” his passenger princess), Isabella (“Lil Doc”), and Rylee (“Turkey”). Together, Eric and Sarah built a loving home in Bridgeport, WV, and operated their beloved farm, 5GCC, in Moatsville, WV, where Eric enjoyed caring for their animals and working the land.

He is also survived by his little brother, Jason (aka “City Boy”) Godwin; sister-in-law Sarah; niece Alia; sister-in-law Rachel and her husband, Joe Cuppari; his grandmother, Willodine Godwin; his aunt, Barbara Godwin; and his mother-in-law, Denise, and Kevin Mills, whose beans and cornbread Eric couldn’t get enough of.

A proud graduate of Buckhannon-Upshur High School, Class of 1996, Eric proudly wore #37 on the football field. During high school, he also attended the Fred W. Eberle Technical Center, where he pursued welding. That passion became his career, and he went on to own and operate Godwin’s Iron Works. Eric was renowned as the best welder around. He could make something from nothing and fix just about anything.

Eric was known for his bright smile, gentle humor, and generous heart. He loved fly fishing and chasing native fish, riding his Harley-Davidson, his truck, and spending time with his loyal dog, Duke. Those who knew him also knew about his new found love for a sharp crease from starching his jeans.

Eric was a fixture at Wally’s Pub & Grub, where mornings were spent sharing stories and laughter over biscuits and gravy with a side of Sunny D. He loved picking on his grandmother Willodine and stealing her fudge and Chex Mix. These simple moments are among the memories his family and friends will treasure most.

Eric’s friends were family, and many became brothers. He was always willing to lend a hand, share a laugh, or simply show up when someone needed him. His kindness, generosity, humor, and larger-than-life personality touched countless lives.

Eric’s legacy will live on through his wife, her three daughters, his family, and the many friends who loved him. His stories will be told, his laughter will be remembered, and his absence will be felt in all the places he loved.

To those who knew him, Eric wasn’t just a friend—he was family.

He will forever be remembered as a LEGEND.

The family will welcome friends and family on Friday September 11, 2026 at Wright Funeral Home 220 N. Walnut St. Philippi, WV, from 1:00 to 8:00 pm.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Eric Garcia for his role as Executor of Eric’s estate, and to Chad and Kim Loudin, Phil, and Courtney for their unwavering support, friendship, and love, especially during Eric’s final chapter.

Eric Godwin will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.