Noel B. Godby

 Noel B. Godby, of Russell Springs, passed from this life on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at Russell County Hospital, with his loving family at his side. He was 80 years, 11 months, and 8 days of age.

Noel B. was born on July 29, 1944, in Windsor, the youngest child of the late Rev. Rufus Adam and Emma Baker Godby. After graduating from high school, Noel B. married Barbara Ann Bernard, and they made their home in Louisville. While living there, Noel became a Licensed Barber, working his way through mortuary school, graduating from the Kentucky School of Mortuary Science on August 6, 1976. Afterwards, Noel and his family moved back to Russell Springs, beginning his long-time career under the direction of his father-in-law, Kenneth Bernard, at Bernard Funeral Home. He received his Funeral Director and Embalmer Licenses from the Kentucky Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors on January 24, 1979.

Noel B.’s career spanned over four decades, serving thousands of families during their most difficult times. He became the manager and part-owner of Bernard Funeral Home, member of the Funeral Directors Association of Kentucky and member of the National Funeral Directors Association.

Noel B. was a long-time member of the Church at the Springs, being a trustee and choir member. He was also a member of the Russell Springs Masonic Lodge #941 F. & A.M. and a charter member of the Russell County Camp of the Gideons International. Noel B. loved UK Basketball and going fishing. But his most treasured time and enjoyment was spent with his family and friends. Noel B. has left an impact on countless lives and will be deeply missed by everyone.

Noel B. leaves behind his beloved wife of 61 years, Barbara Ann Godby, whom he married on May 25, 1964; his son, Eric (and Euretha) Godby; his daughter, Lesley (and Willie) Hurt), all of Russell Springs; and his sister, LaFern Bernard, of Leitchfield.

Noel B. was “Papaw” to six grandchildren, Kelsay (and Matt) Chambless, of Bardstown, Colton Hurt, of Russell Springs, Karli Hurt, of Russell Springs, Bryson Godby, of Jamestown, Molly McQueary, of Chicago, and Brittany (and Logan) Antle, of Jamestown; and five great-grandchildren, Baker Chambless, Hayes Chambless, Jamie Chambless, Eleanor Antle, and Claire Antle.

In addition to his parents, Noel B. was preceded in death by his son, Kevin Godby; six brothers, Carl Godby, Paul Godby, Merle Godby, Elwyn “Hoss” Godby, Leon Godby, and Dual Godby; and two sisters, Thema Foley and Elva Russell.

Funeral services are 1:00 P.M. on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at Bernard Funeral Home, with Brother David Calhoun and Brother Taylor Evans officiating and providing special music, Kolten Grider.  Burial will follow in Russell Springs City Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 4:00-8:00 P.M. on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, and after 7:30 A.M. until time of services on Thursday, at Bernard Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations of sympathy be made to Hospice of Lake Cumberland, 100 Parkway Drive, Somerset, KY 42503. Donations can also be made at the funeral home.

Funeral arrangements for Mr. Noel B. Godby are under the care and direction of Bernard Funeral Home. 

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