Grant Godwin passed away after an extended illness in Gainesville, Fla.

Grant was born and raised in Oak Grove, Fla., near Pensacola, Fla.

Growing up in Oak Grove, he was active in 4-H clubs and Future Farmers of America. In high school, Grant was rewarded with the prestigious “American Farmer’ award — one of three recipients in the state of Florida.

He graduated from the University of Florida with a bachelor’s and master’s degree in agriculture, and worked for 4-H, IFAS at the University of Florida.
He met his wife, Bronna, while working as 4-H staff members — Grant at the University of Florida and Bronna at Florida State University. They were married in Bartow, Fla., on June 30, 1957. They have made their home in Gainesville since that date.

They have three children. Mark (Karen) who lives on Lake Santa Fe in Alachua County; Jane (Randy) of Houston, Texas, who have a son; and Alex and Ann (Tom), of Naples, Fla., who have a daughter, Lauren, and a son, Ryan (Lara). Lauren has a son, Jesse.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting and traveling. Grant and Bronna aimed to visit all national parks and historical sites. They enjoyed some parks so much, they continued to visit. They toured many European countries, including Great Britain, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, Greece, Spain and Portugal. They also enjoyed time in Egypt, Australia, New Zealand, and cruised regularly.

Grant enjoyed his Yorkie, Annabel, a special companion in his later years.

A graveside service will be held Friday, May 22, at 11 a.m. in Oak Grove Cemetery, in Century, Fla.

Memorial contributions may be made to Haven Hospice, 4200 NW 90th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32606.

Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.