Clifford D. Godwin, 93, of Royalton, NY, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family and under the care of Niagara Hospice. Born in Dozier, AL, he was the son of the late Claude C. and Luvenia K. (Gilchrist) Godwin.

Clifford grew up in a family of Alabama sharecroppers, a heritage he carried with deep pride throughout his life. In 1950, at the age of 18, he moved to Niagara Falls, NY, where he began building the life and legacy his family cherishes today.

He proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean War from 1953 until his honorable discharge in 1955. Following his military service, Clifford became employed with Kimberly Clark Paper Company before beginning a 23-year career as a Forklift Operator at Harrison Radiator, where he worked until the mid-1990s. He later found his true passion as a Groundskeeper with the New York State Parks Department in Corfu, NY, a position he held for 17 years until his retirement.

A former parishioner of St. Leo's Church, Clifford enjoyed hunting, fishing, and—above all—spending time with his family. He will be remembered for his quiet, soft-spoken nature, his gentle presence, and his love of reminiscing and sharing stories from a life well lived.

Clifford is survived by his children, Marty (Christa) Godwin, Donna (Ray, Jr.) Lamb, and David (Diane) Godwin; his stepson, Tony (Doreen) Russo; his grandchildren, Bailey (Michael) Lekanka, Aubrey (fiancé Mark Eberz) Godwin, Katherine (Dan) Zuba, Ray (Lauren) Lamb III, Cody (fiancée Rachel Denver) Godwin, and Gina Godwin, Adam Wright, Marissa (Kyle) Shanley, and Joshua (fiancée Amanda Cox) Wright.; his great grandchildren, Micah, Ethan, Joseph, Julian, Max, Nina, Jay and Cal; and his great-great granddaughter, Isla. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and cousins.  He was predeceased by his first wife, Dolores (Guth) Godwin in 1983; his second wife, Eleanor (Russo) Godwin in 2024; his siblings, Glennie (late Leon) Holloway and Charlie (late Ruth) Godwin, and his stepson, Matthew (Marie) Russo in 2024.

Private funeral services with Military Honors and interment in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston, NY, will be held at the convenience of the family.  In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Niagara Hospice at www.niagarahospice.org.  Arrangements by M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel.  Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.