Thurman Godfrey

Thurman G. Godfrey VIRGINIA BEACH - Thurman G. Godfrey, 83, went to be with the Lord on Oct. 3, 2010. He is survived by his children, Tonya Kulenguski and her husband Robert, Tracy Sierzchula and her husband David, Greg Godfrey and wife Connie, Robert Godfrey and Dana Godfrey; his grandchildren, Jason Kulenguski, Tara Ramey, Andy and Daniel Sierzchula, Brittany Godfrey, Alex Godfrey, Kathryn Godfrey, Kevin Godfrey and Kristin Godfrey, and one great-grandchild, "Miss Ellie" Kulenguski. He is also survived by a brother, Albert Godfrey; and his sisters, Nina Sykes, Jakie Phelps and Shirley Hamn. Mr. Godfrey was an expert navigator with the U.S. Merchant Marines for more than 40 years. He retired to take care of his beloved wife during her long illness. He enjoyed tending his vegetable garden on his property in Currituck County, North Carolina, and tinkering at home in his workshop. However, his greatest joy and purpose in life came from the love and devotion to his grandchildren. He delighted in spending time with them on various projects. His final project was with his grandson to re-open and restore a waterway in Currituck County, to once again allow boat access and fishing by property owners. He was surprised and proud to learn just before his death that the waterway will bear his name. Mr. Godfrey will long be remembered for his selfless devotion and loyalty to his mother and siblings during his youth, and later to his wife, children, and adoring grandchildren. The family will receive friends from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. today, Oct. 9, at Rosewood Kellum Funeral Home, and will immediately proceed to Rosewood Memorial Park for burial. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.kellumfuneralhome.com.