Jacob "Jake" Winberry Godwin Jr.

Jacob "Jake" Winberry Godwin Jr., 63, of Newport, North Carolina, passed away at his home on Thursday, February 12, 2026.

A celebration of Jake’s life will be held at 3 p.m., Thursday, February 19th at Parkview Baptist Church. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Jake will be laid to rest privately at Gethsemane Memorial Park. For those unable to attend, the service can be viewed through his obituary page on Munden Funeral Home’s website. 

Jake was born on September 6, 1962, at Duke University Hospital in Sea Level, NC, to the late Jacob Winberry Godwin Sr. and Mamie Grace Small Godwin.

A graduate of West Carteret High School, Jake continued his education at the University of Mt Olive and the University of North Carolina - Pembroke, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in education. Following in his father’s footsteps, he dedicated his life to teaching and coaching, finding deep fulfillment in shaping young minds both in the classroom and on the field.

Jake’s passion for education extended far beyond his professional duties. He volunteered his time tutoring students and took special joy in reading to kindergarten classes each year in honor of Dr. Seuss’s birthday. A respected leader in the educational community, he was actively involved with the National Education Association and the North Carolina Association of Educators.

After retiring from the classroom, Jake continued his commitment to public education by faithfully serving on the Carteret County Board of Education representing District 2, including time as Vice Chair. In this role, he worked tirelessly to improve student achievement, strengthen accountability and safety, ensure adequate resources for students and teachers, and foster meaningful partnerships between schools, businesses, and the broader community.

He had a huge heart and was willing to do anything to help others. However, he was a fierce sports fan and attended hundreds of events for his teams (NC State, ECU, Green Bay Packers). He was a loyal and passionate fan and if you needed to know anything about football or basketball, you could ask Jake!

Those remaining to cherish his memory are his sister, Susan Godwin Jones (Bill) of Mt. Holly, NC, and nephews, Ryan Jones of Charlotte, NC and Keary Jones of Boca Raton, FL.

In addition to his parents, Jake was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents and many aunts and uncles.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to a local charity of your choice.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.