Frank Godwin

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Frank Godwin on February 17th, 2026.

Frank was born on July 1st, 1938, in Sebring, FL, to the founders of Gatorland, Owen and Pearl Godwin, and later led the beloved tourist attraction from 1975 to 1996. Throughout his 87 years, Frank could easily be described as a "gentleman tough guy."

On April 1st, 1957, Frank joined the U.S. Army, where he served as a photojournalist in Korea. He was honorably discharged in 1960 with the rank of SPC 5 and a lifelong love of photography.

His contributions to Gatorland have become iconic, including the creation of the world-famous Gator Mouth entrance in 1962, as well as the islands, walkways, and key structures that are so beloved at Gatorland.

Frank was good at just about everything but sitting still. Frank dabbled in engineering, horticulture, animal husbandry, theme park design, business management, and more. Frank was renowned for his hard work and hands-on experience when bringing his visions to life. A skill that he passed on to his family and all who worked with him.

He and his wife of 44 years, Joann, bought an RV and traveled all over the United States. They went just about everywhere and brought home several souvenirs, including a Yorkie puppy named "KO," who became inseparable from Frank.

Frank loved being active. Even in retirement, he would unwind by building things, gardening, and helping neighbors with whatever they needed, right up until his passing. Frank never saw a reason to hire others to do things that he was capable of doing for himself.

From family get-togethers to fishing on his dock with grandkids to being the father of an "Indian Princess," Frank understood the value of spending time with family. He always put special effort into caring for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. From poker lessons to treasure hunts for "pirate money," it's safe to say Frank had a lasting impact on the lives of his family and friends. Likewise, he deeply appreciated the impact they had on his life. (We're looking at you, Bloody Mary Pancake Club).

His philosophy could be best summed up by his 1956 senior high school yearbook quote: "The best place to find a helping hand is at the end of your arm."

Frank is predeceased by his wife, Joann Godwin, and survived by his loving daughters, Diane McHugh and Annalisa Smith, and his sons, Mike Godwin and Tony Smith, as well as his grandchildren, Chelsea McHugh, Taylor McHugh, Corey Khaw, and Liam Khaw, and his great-grandchildren, Ryker and Ronin Maldonado. His loss will also be felt by extended family, close friends, and Gatorland's family of employees.

Frank's tradition of hard work, humor, and perseverance will carry on with the Godwin family, who continue to care for the Gatorland legacy he helped to build. Frank truly loved Gatorland and dreaming up new experiences for guests. As Frank would say: "You gotta have a dream to have a dream come true."

A memorial service celebrating Frank's exceptional life will be held on February 27th, 2026, at 1 PM at Gatorland. We invite all who knew and loved Frank to join us in honoring his memory.

In lieu of flowers, we encourage you to honor Frank's legacy through donations to Russellhome.org or Gatorlandglobal.org.