Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

November 24, 2025

Richard Wayne Godwin (Wayne), 84, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather (“Coo”), brother, and friend, Wayne leaves behind a legacy of integrity, leadership, and unwavering strength.

Wayne is survived by his beloved wife and teenage sweetheart, Elvira (Vera) Elizabeth Godwin, with whom he shared more than 62 years of marriage. He is also survived by his daughters, Jennifer Godwin Peppler(Bryan) and Melissa Godwin (Scoot), his cherished granddaughters, Kinsey Nicole Peppler (Mason) and Kylie Elizabeth Peppler (Autumn). He is also survived by his sister, Susan Godwin Tramontana, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

Wayne was preceded in death by his mother, Thora Spitzfaden Godwin, and his brother, Charles Gary Godwin.

Driven, intelligent, and endlessly dedicated, Wayne earned his PhD in Chemistry from Duke University. He went on to build an extraordinary career marked by leadership, innovation, and deep respect from all who worked with him. He served as President of Celanese Corporation; President and CEO of BASF Structural Materials; President of BASF Fibers Company; President of BASF Plastics Company; and Executive Vice President of BASF Corporation. A true professional and mentor, he was a role model to colleagues across the industry.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Wayne was a man of balance—working hard, playing hard, and always “doing it right the first time.” An avid and accomplished golfer, he won multiple club championships and competed on the Senior Amateur Tour. He loved traveling the world, exploring new places with curiosity and enthusiasm.

Those who knew Wayne remember him as level-headed, generous, loving, and kind—a man who valued education, friendship, and family above all. He faced numerous health challenges with courage, grace, and determination, becoming a true warrior in his battle against cancer. His humor, wisdom, and steady presence enriched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him.

A celebration of Wayne’s life will be announced at a later date. His family invites all who loved him to honor a life well lived—a life marked by strength, loyalty, and a heart full of love.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Misty Meadows Mitey Riders (a therapeutic horseback riding program for children with special needs…an organization that Wayne was passionate about supporting), the Levine Cancer Institute, or the Alzheimer's Association.  He battled both cancer and dementia valiantly and had tremendous support from many healthcare professionals with whom he came into contact with.  The family would like to specially thank Dr. Catherine Frenkel and the incredible staff on the 2^nd Floor of the Stewart Center at the Cypress for their kindness and compassion in his greatest time of need.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.