Elmer John Godfrey III, 75, was called to be with the Lord on Oct. 26, 2021.

He worked for 40 years for Smithfield Foods as an industrial engineer. His passions included golf, fishing and hunting. John was the son of the late Elmer John Godfrey Jr. and Nellie Beale Godfrey Bateman. John is survived by his wife of 53 years, Deborah Winslow Godfrey; daughter, Shannon Godfrey Ferguson and husband, Craig; son, Elmer John Godfrey IV and wife, Ayca; granddaughter, Melody Ferguson Fernaays and husband, Sean; grandson, Hunter Coulbourn Ferguson; granddaughter, Dilara Anne Godfrey; grandson, Elmer John Godfrey V; great-granddaughters, Nellie Lucille Fernaays, Isabel Grace Fernaays and Lily Mae Fernaays.

A graveside service celebrating John’s life is to be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 30, 2021, in Bethany Cemetery, Smithfield. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Isle of Wight Volunteer Rescue Squad, P O Box 97, Smithfield, VA 23431. Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com.