Jim Godsell of Statesville, N.C., and formerly of Oklahoma City, Okla., went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on March 25, 2025.

He leaves behind his wife of 63 years, Judith Godsell (Garr); his sons, Gary Godsell of Minneapolis, Minn., and Jeff Godsell (Deborah) of Statesville, N.C., three grandchildren, Ben Godsell (Madi), Katie Brown (Seth), and Carrie Mosteller (Josh); and nine great grandchildren.

He was born March 27, 1937, in Webster City, Iowa, growing up in Grand Island, Neb. After high school, Jim enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving as a radar operator. He loved his time in the Air Force serving our country. After the Air Force, Jim earned a B.S. in Business Administration at Oklahoma City University, where he also enjoyed playing on the college golf team.

Jim’s friendly nature and outgoing personality made him thrive in sales. He spent over 30 years with the 3M company and was promoted to several management positions. He loved his work, and upon retirement, he loved talking about his work. Jim was proud to be part of the team that launched the Post-It Note.

In his retirement, he enjoyed playing golf with friends, traveling with Judy, and enjoying his family. Jim also enjoyed his church and his church friends. He attended Crossings Community Church in Oklahoma City, Okla., and Western Avenue Baptist Church in Statesville. His favorite Bible verse was Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.”

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on April 13, 2025, at Western Avenue Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Western Avenue Baptist Church, 1206 Museum Road, Statesville, NC 28625.

Troutman Funeral Home is honored to serve the Godsell family.