Larry Joe Godfrey Sr.

Larry Joe Godfrey Sr., passed away on October 11th, 2025. He was born in Akron, Ohio on September 8, 1945 to the late Clarence and Hazel (Hurley) Godfrey. Larry was a 1963 graduate of Ellet High School. He retired from Dominion East Ohio Gas after 35 years of service. Larry enjoyed playing softball working on classic cars, watching his favorite sports team, camping, meeting with fellow Vietnam War Veterans and spending time with his family. Larry’s keen wit made him famous for very funny comments at family gatherings.

Survivors include his loving wife, Deborah; son, Joe Godfrey (Judi), daughter, Julie Godfrey-Cornish (Paul), bonus daughter, Amy Simmons (Lex); brother, Gary Godfrey; grandchildren, Jake Godfrey (Brooke), Jonah Godfrey-Cornish, Sarah Stutzman (Art Dalziel), Andrew Dyer (Ashley Courtney), Emily Kisamore (Mitch); the sweetest great granddaughters, Aurora, Mia and Riley; and his life long friend, Jim Page. Besides his parents, Larry was preceded in death by his sister, Sharon Adorni; son, Eric Godfrey; and in-laws Glen and Velma Wolff.

Larry proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps achieving the rank of Sergeant. He served a 13-month tour in Vietnam as a combat engineer during the Vietnam War. He was a proud member of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 717 and St. Mark Lutheran Church.

On October 16th, 1993, Larry married Deborah and together they formed a wonderful, blended family. He and Debbie created a beautiful home farm where they raised a wide variety of animals and nurtured beautiful landscapes and woodlands in which to raise and entertain their ever-growing family and friends. Larry’s sense of honor, sense of loyalty and sense of humor made him a well-loved husband, dad, grandpa, and ggpa, family member and friend.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Traditions Hospice, especially Jess, Tracie, Kari and Pastor Jeff.

Everyone is welcome to visit Monday, October 20, 2025 from 12 to 1 p.m. at Newcomer, Akron Chapel, 131 N. Canton Rd. The funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will take place at Hillside Memorial Park.

To share a memory of Larry or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guest book below.