Noel B. Godby, 80, of Russell Springs, KY passed from this life on Sunday, July 6, 2025 at Russell County Hospital, with his loving family at his side. He 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.
SURVIVORS:
His beloved wife of 61 years: Barbara Ann Godby, whom he married on May 25, 1964
1 son: Eric (& Euretha) Godby of Russell Springs
1 daughter: Lesley (Willie) Hurt) of Russell Springs
1 sister: LaFern Bernard of Leitchfield
6 grandchildren: Kelsay (and Matt) Chambless of Bardstown, Colton Hurt and Karli Hurt of Russell Springs, Bryson Godby of Jamestown, Molly McQueary of Chicago, and Brittany (Logan) Antle of Jamestown
5 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 a 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 Service: Thursday, July 10, 2025 at 1:00pmCT at Bernard Funeral Home with Bro. David Calhoun and Bro. Taylor Evans officiating and Kolten Grider providing special music
Burial: Russell Springs City Cemetery
Visitation: Wednesday, July 9, 2025 from 4:00pm-8:00pmCT and Thursday after 7:30amCT 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 are under the care and direction of Bernard Funeral Home. An online guestbook is available at www.bernardfuneralhome.com.
