Frances Dolores Godby

Frances Dolores Burnett Godby passed away February 14, 2026, just shy of her ninety-fifth birthday. She was born on May 4, 1931, to Virgil and Gussie (Newman) Burnett, and she lived in Louisville's Highland Park neighborhood until she married John Godby in 1955. Devoted to her faith, Dolores was a member of St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, and later, St. Rita. She was employed in the accounting department at Winn Dixie until she "retired" to become a stay-at-home mom.

Dolores loved all sports, both as an athlete and a fan. John and Dolores even honeymooned in New York City so that they could watch the Yankees play. Even though she followed all sports, Dolores was an avid Kentucky fan and followed all Big Blue teams. However, she cheered the loudest for her favorite UK football player, her grandson. She was the best "Menaw" ever.

Dolores was an exceptional softball and basketball player. She played in the Championship Softball Final for The Silver Girls, sponsored by Silverman's Department Store, in 1949, and the City-Wide Championship Basketball Team, the St. Anthony Cagers, in 1954. Later in life, she bowled for the Easy Rollers at Okolona Lanes.

Sports was not Dolores' only passion as she was also an accomplished seamstress. She created beautiful dresses, children's clothes, curtains and draperies, all because she attended an adult education sewing class on a whim. She was an excellent cook, and her Italian Cream Cake was a family favorite. She loved a good party and family get togethers, and she loved to dance and play cards and games. She rarely missed Bunco Night with friends that formed their group upon graduation from Ahrens Trade High School in 1949. They met monthly for over sixty years. A thirty-year cancer survivor, hers was a life lived in courage, optimism and faith, values she instilled in and exemplified for her children.

Dolores was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; sisters Helen Brauner, Mary Louise App, and Jane Saylor. She is survived by her children Jeff Godby (Giovanna), Jo Lynn Godby Carron (Steve), grandson Max Godby (Ashley), great grandson Judd Godby, and nephew Gary Saylor (Karen).

A private graveside service will be held at a later date. Any memorial gifts may be made to Hosparus Health.