Edward William Godfrey

Edward William Godfrey of Atlanta, GA passed away on June 30th, 2026, at the age of 80. Born to Leland Buell Godfrey and Margaret Guthrie Godfrey on November 3rd, 1945, in Atlanta, GA and spent his formative years in Signal Mountain, TN.

Ed attended Baylor School in Chattanooga where he participated in ROTC and was a proud manager for Baylor athletics. During his time at Baylor he developed the discipline and character that were evident to all who knew him. He went on to Georgia Institute of Technology where he was a member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity where he made lasting friendships. Ed graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Management in 1967.

He served in the United States Army from 1968 to 1970 as a First Lieutenant in the Vietnam War and around the world. Ed was decorated with two Bronze Star Medals, an Army Commendation Medal, and an Air Medal. He was so very proud of his country and honored to serve.

Upon return, Ed was a sales manager with Proctor & Gamble before settling in to his career with Merrill Lynch in 1971. This began a 43 year career where Ed was admired by clients and colleagues alike. He was especially proud that a majority of his clients ended up friends given his strong character and exceptional stewardship. He also enjoyed mentoring junior advisors and colleagues early in their careers.

In 1980 he married Suzanne Graham Wright in Forsyth, GA. Ed was most proud of his two children, Christoher and Graham, who he guided to adulthood with unconditional love, uncommon wisdom and joyful pride in the people they have become. He passed to them his love of Golf, Skiing, all sports and great music. Through all seasons of his life, Ed's greatest love was for his wife, Suzanne.

His hobbies included a distinguished career as a GSHA Football Official, golf, SCUBA diving, skiing, walking and passionately following Georgia Tech athletics.

Ed is survived by his loving wife Suzanne, two sons Christopher and Graham and four loving Grandchildren in Atlanta and Denver.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to Kimberly, Marilyn, Varee, Wandavia, and Ufuoma for their exceptional care, compassion, and support over the last few years.

A memorial service will be held in Forsyth, GA for immediate family on July 7, 2026. A reception will be held July 7, 2026, at Cherokee Country Club at 1pm. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The Children's Healthcare of Atlanta AFLAC Cancer Center , the Alzheimer's Association or The Georgia Tech Alexander Tharpe Fund.

Please visit www.monroecountymemorialchapel.com to express your condolences.

Monroe County Memorial Chapel, 86 W. Main Street, Forsyth, GA 31029 has charge of the arrangements.