Girard Joseph "Jerry" Godin

Girard Joseph “Jerry” Godin, a deeply loved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026. Born on March 25, 1931, in Athol, Massachusetts, Jerry lived a full and vibrant life rooted in faith, family, and a genuine love for his community.

From an early age, Jerry stood out—not just for his athletic talent, but for his drive and spirit. He was named a North Worcester County All-Star in both football and basketball and was later inducted into the Athol High School Hall of Fame. After graduation, he followed a calling that spoke to his heart, attending Eymard Seminary with the Blessed Sacrament Fathers in Suffern, New York. That time helped shape a lifelong relationship with God.

Jerry went on to serve his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean conflict, rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant while working as a personnel supervisor. In 1956, he returned home to Athol from Washington State and began what would become a remarkable 64-year career in real estate, founding Godin Real Estate. He built his business the same way he lived his life—with integrity, persistence, and a belief that relationships mattered more than transactions.

He was a respected member of the Board of Realtors, a certified real estate appraiser, and a Charter Graduate of the Realtor Institute. His entrepreneurial spirit also led him to serve on the Corporate Board of Orange Savings Bank and to own several local businesses, including Star Bowling Alley, Packard Heights Pavilion in Orange, and the Curve Inn Bar in Winchendon.

But for all his professional accomplishments, what mattered most to Jerry was family. He believed deeply that family came first and had a special way of making each person feel valued and loved by offering guidance or a simple story. His home and his heart were always open. Jerry gave generously to his community, serving as Chairman of the American Cancer Society for seven consecutive years, where he was honored with a distinguished award presented by Gregory Peck and Senator Ted Kennedy. He also served the town of Athol as a precinct representative, a member of the Finance Committee, and as a notary public. His civic involvement was about giving back to the place and people he loved.

He brought that same passion and discipline to his personal life. An accomplished golfer, Jerry recorded nine holes-in-one, won nine club championships, and even played professionally on the Florida mini-tour for two years. He also served as President of Ellinwood Country Club and was instrumental in converting the course from nine to eighteen holes. Jerry found joy in quieter pursuits—oil painting, collecting stamps, coins, and antiques. Whether on the golf course or among friends at the American Legion, Knights of Columbus, Athol Lions Club, YMCA Century Club, Jerry embraced life fully.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Frances (Perkins) Godin, whom he married in 1989; his six children, Cynthia Godin and her husband Edward Mallen, Timothy and his wife Ann Godin, Debra and her husband Arnold Bergeron, Jennifer and her husband Bart Alford, Daniel and his wife Karen Godin, and Elizabeth Godin and her wife Lisa Leckenby; his three stepchildren, Rodney Bialkin, Rachel and her husband Phil Behrens, Jesse and his wife Jennifer Bialkin, his sister, Annette Rogman, his sister-in-law Dorothy Godin, his brother-in-law Walter and his wife Sandra Perkins; and over fifty grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Jerry was predeceased by his parents, Clement and Laura Godin; his brothers, Valment and Wilbert Godin; his sister Adora Godin; and his first wife, Nancy (Powers) Godin, who passed away in 1983.

As we remember Jerry's unmistakable positivity and generous spirit, we celebrate a man whose faith and love for his family will be his greatest legacy.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Greater New England MS Society Chapter, 465 Waberley Oaks Rd., Suite 202, Waltham, MA, 02452, and the Athol American Legion, 325 Pequoig Ave., Athol, MA, 01331.

Calling Hours will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 6 - 8 PM at Mack Family Funeral Homes, Athol-Orange Chapel, 110 New Athol Road, Orange, MA.

A Mass will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 10 AM at Our Lady Immaculate Church, 192 School Street, Athol, MA, with a burial to follow at Gethsemane Cemetery, Fielding Way, Athol, MA.