Leland “L.E.” Elbert Godwin, Jr., age 88, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, June 15, 2026.

Born on December 18, 1937, in Johnston County, North Carolina, he was the son of the late Leland Elbert Godwin, Sr. and Lillie Avery Godwin. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Judy Lynette Godwin; his brother, Billie Godwin; and his sisters, Marguerite Stevens and Anne Proctor Wood.

At the age of 17½, L.E. answered God’s call to ministry, beginning a lifelong commitment to serving others through the church. For more than 50 years, he faithfully ministered to congregations throughout Johnston County and surrounding communities. His passion was not only building church memberships but also helping build church facilities, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives. Alongside his ministry, L.E. spent many years working in home construction, helping build houses throughout the area.

L.E. will be remembered for his unwavering faith, dedication to his family, and tireless service to his community.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at The Way of Life Baptist Church. The family will receive visitors one hour prior to the service, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the church. Burial will follow at Bethesda Baptist Church Cemetery.

He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 70 years, Judy Cole Godwin; his son, Leland “Lee” Elbert Godwin, III and wife, Connie; grandchildren, Leah Paulus and husband Brian Paulus; great-grandchildren, Adalynn and Jeb Bullard, and Aubrey Paulus; his sister, Carolyn Winstead; five nieces and nephews; and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

His legacy of faith, service, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

May his memory be a blessing to his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Way of Life Baptist Church, 2100 Harmony Court, Clayton, NC 27520.