Our precious Keith Ansel Godwin departed from this life to his eternal resting place on Saturday, August 13 at his home in Washington, D.C. We celebrated the beginning of his life on April 12, 1961 when he became God's gift to his parents Thomas and Juanita Brickhouse Godwin.

Keith's outgoing personality, infectious smile and leadership skills became evident at an early age as he exhibited love, concern, compassion and generosity for family, friends and everyone he met. He surrendered his life to Christ at a young age and became an active member of The First Baptist Church serving as a youth usher and helping to initiate and plan many Sunday School activities.

Keith possessed an engulfing mind that expressed courage, strength and the determination to succeed. In his youth, he developed a love for academics, athletics, outdoor activities and music. As a student, he held numerous leadership positions as Student Council President, Honor Society President, Yearbook Editor, Band Section Leader, and Virginia Boys State representative.

After graduating from Cape Charles High School, he attended Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University and Old Dominion University before excelling in the field of Information Systems at ECPI. Upon graduating, Keith worked in the Information Technology field before answering the call of duty to serve his country in the United States Navy. This adventurous call would ultimately take him to every continent in the world.

During his time of service, Keith received numerous awards and recognitions including Stroker of the Quarter, Sailor of the Month and the Good Conduct Award eventually earning an honorable discharge for seven years of service. Upon returning to the States, in 1987 Keith met and wed the love of his life, Deborah Taylor on February 14, 1990. Keith and Deborah enjoyed vacationing in different parts of the world, loved entertaining family and friends and recently returned from a Bermuda cruise. Keith pursued a 20-year career in Information Systems with the Washington, D.C. Department of Corrections. As Chief of Information Systems, Keith led a technology department of distinguished team members. Keith also attended the University of the District of Columbia in the pursuit of a Mortuary Science degree.

Keith honored, respected, and was delighted to be a part of the Mount Horeb Baptist Church, often inviting family members and friends to join him in worship services. Keith and Deborah joined Mount Horeb Baptist Church in January 1999.

Paying homage to his military career and family's Civil War legacy, Keith became affiliated with the Washington, D.C. Buffalo Soldiers in the 9th and 10th Calvary Association and proudly served as President of the organization. Under his leadership tenure, the Chapter hosted its National Convention in Washington, D.C. in 2010.

Keith's world was BIGGER than BIG. He will be remembered for his hospitable and welcoming spirit and love for life. Keith lived each day to its fullest and surrounded himself with the people he loved most as often as he could. His home and his heart were always open and his positive view on life was evident by his favorite quote, "Don't sit around waiting for the storm to pass . . . learn to dance in the rain." Particularly special to him, were his nephew Glenn, Jr. and niece Madison whom he loved to spoil and brag about to his friends and co-workers.

Our beloved Keith leaves to cherish his memory a loving and devoted wife of 21 years, Deborah; parents Thomas George Godwin and Juanita Brickhouse Godwin; one brother Thomas George Godwin, Jr.; one sister Tonja Godwin Jones; one grandmother Alston Joynes Godwin; two aunts Luray L. Brickhouse and Jennie Marie G. King; two uncles Maurice Brickhouse and Roscoe Brickhouse; one nephew/godson Glenn Eric Jones, Jr.; one niece Madison Taylor Jones; four brothers-in-law- Lester D. Taylor (M. Elizabeth); Larry D. Taylor (Dorothy); Earl V. Taylor and Leonard M. Taylor (Wanda); three sisters-in-law- Mildred Curtis; Alva Dutton and Patricia Sample; a first cousin, Toyka King, numerous cousins, family and friends.


Lovingly submitted, The Family