William Godbold

Jr.HOUSTON, Texas William Ellerbe Godbold Jr., 89, formerly of Chattanooga, passed away Wednesday evening, Jan. 18, 2012.He was preceded in death by his wife, Louise.He is survived by two sons, Bill (Debbie) Godbold, of Chattanooga, Tom (Debbie) Godbold, of Houston, Texas; and a daughter, Gayle Bell (Mike) of Austin, Texas. His beloved grandchildren are Chris, Auburn, Ala., Andrew, Chattanooga, Ryan, Hong Kong, Meredith, Dallas, and Katie, Houston. He also leaves behind a brother, Jack Godbold (Glendora), of Stone Mountain, Ga.Born on Aug. 11, 1922, in Orangeburg County, S.C., Bill was the epitome of a true Southern gentleman personified by his grace, class, wit and charm. He spent 41 years of his life as an executive with Kraft Foods at various locations throughout the Southeast and Texas. He was an avid golfer and member of Champions Golf Club in Houston as well as former member of Chattanooga Golf and Country Club. His family is at peace knowing, as he did, that he now resides in his eternal home.A family graveside service will be held at Mount Hebron United Methodist Church in West Columbia, S.C.Funeral arrangements are being handled by Thompson Funeral Home of West Columbia, SC. and Klein Funeral Home of Houston, Texas.Memorial contributions may be sent to Signal Mountain Presbyterian Church, 612 James Blvd., Signal Mountain, TN 37377.Arrangements for a memorial service to be held in Houston are pending.