Gardner-Webb University Mourns the Passing of Dr. Earl H. Godfrey Jr. on May 7

Known for His Faith, Storytelling, and Dedication to Students, Professor Emeritus of Accounting Served the University for Over Three Decades

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The Gardner-Webb community is remembering Dr. Earl H. Godfrey Jr., an educator, colleague and friend, who passed away on May 7, 2026. For more than three decades, Godfrey faithfully served the University as a professor of accounting. In March, faculty in the Godbold College of Business recommended him for Professor Emeritus Status, and he was awarded the honor for his excellence in teaching, leadership, and service.

“He was a friend and colleague who truly loved everything about Gardner-Webb University and the Godbold College of Business,” reflected Dr. Mischia Taylor, Godbold College of Business dean and assistant professor of marketing. “His many ‘short’ stories will remain with us always. He was kind to all and truly wore his GWU hat proudly!”

Taylor, who worked with Godfrey for 16 years, said he was known for his storytelling. In the letter she wrote recommending him for Emeritus status, she noted, “He possessed a remarkable ability to communicate with clarity and purpose. Even when his stories were lengthy, they were always thoughtful, intentional, and ultimately meaningful to all who had the privilege of listening.”

A graduate of the University of South Carolina, Winthrop University, and Nova Southeastern University, Godfrey brought both scholarly rigor and professional expertise into the classroom as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA). During his 34 years at Gardner-Webb, he taught virtually every course within the accounting program. He also played a pivotal role in the development of the Master of Accounting program, which continues to prepare and graduate successful students.

Taylor also stated that Godfrey’s passion for education was unmistakable. He approached his calling with a deep sense of purpose—believing that teaching was not only about imparting knowledge but also about shaping lives.

Godfrey was instrumental in expanding opportunities for students, including helping lead the University’s transition into online education, where he taught its first online course and helped establish programs that would reach students far beyond campus. His contributions helped position Gardner-Webb as a forward-thinking institution committed to innovation and accessibility in higher education.

His influence extended beyond the classroom. He served in numerous leadership roles, including director of Undergraduate Business Programs, director of Online Learning, and director of business programs for adult learners, helping to expand academic offerings across North Carolina and beyond. He also played a key role in accreditation efforts and served in leadership positions within the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), including international service as treasurer and committee chair. These efforts reflected his unwavering commitment to academic quality, institutional growth, and student success.

His colleagues described him as an educator who exemplified a rare blend of rigor, humility, and compassion. “He held high expectations for his students but paired those expectations with patience, encouragement, and genuine care,” Taylor described. “He was deeply invested in their success, often mentoring students long after they left his classroom. His mentorship extended far beyond graduation, shaping careers and lives.”

A respected scholar and professional, Godfrey remained actively engaged in his field through teaching, research, and professional service. His work in areas such as accounting ethics, educational innovation, and student learning outcomes reflected a lifelong commitment to growth and improvement. His excellence was recognized through numerous awards, including Gardner-Webb University’s Graduate Faculty Member of the Year and multiple honors for teaching, research, and service.

Beyond his many achievements, the faculty in the Godbold College of Business remember him most for his character. Taylor said he was a man of deep faith, integrity, and compassion, who gave generously of his time and energy to serve others. His colleagues recalled his wisdom, his willingness to help, and his ability to bring people together with a spirit of unity and purpose.

Above all, Godfrey was devoted to his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 33 years, Joan; his son, Ryan Kyles; his daughter, Jennifer Spencer and husband Chad; his grandchildren, Sydnee, Kellan, Harper, and Julian; and his sister, Ann G. Shirley.

Godfrey’s legacy is one of excellence and lasting impact, evident in the generations of students he guided through his teaching, leadership, and mentorship. His life was marked by humility and a steadfast commitment to the mission of Gardner-Webb University.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to Gardner-Webb University’s Godbold College of Business in memory of Dr. Earl Godfrey.

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Become More at gardner-webb.edu.