David Bert Godwin was born on July 27, 1954, in Thomas, Oklahoma, to Homer Billy and Margaret Julia (Long) Godwin. He passed away on July 6, 2026, in Oklahoma City at the age of 71.

Bert spent his childhood in Guymon, Fay, and Thomas. As a student at Thomas High School, he enjoyed spending time with friends, whether fishing or simply cruising around town. Beginning at the age of 14, he spent his summers custom harvesting, traveling from Texas to the Canadian border. Those early years sparked a lifelong passion for agriculture and the wheat industry. He graduated with the Thomas High School Class of 1972 and soon began what would become a lifelong career with McNeil Grain Company.

In 1978, Bert met Carole Ann Windland. The couple married on July 19, 1980, and were just days away from celebrating their 46th wedding anniversary. Together they raised their three children, Jeremy, Amy and Shelly, in Thomas before later making their home in Fay. The family was very involved in livestock shows, spending countless hours raising pigs and making cherished memories together.

Bert dedicated 48 years to the grain industry, he saw McNeil Grain Company become Wheeler Brothers Grain, and he retired 2024. Respected throughout the industry, Bert was someone people continued to go to for guidance, always willing to share his insight and help solve problems. Even in retirement, his love for the industry never faded. He continued working part-time with Enid Grain Inspection at Wheeler Brothers in Watonga. Bert enjoyed the friendships he built over the years, especially the time spent visiting over coffee with his longtime elevator friends.

Retirement gave Bert more time to enjoy his family and the outdoors. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and enjoyed fishing, camping and boating. Bert and Carole especially looked forward to road trips to visit family whenever they had the opportunity.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter, Amy Heath, and her husband, Lance.

Bert is survived by his wife, Carole Godwin; son, Jeremy Godwin and his wife, Kristina; daughter, Shelly Knight and her husband, Will; grandchildren, Kylie Barnes, Jace and Betty Godwin, Wyatt and Garrett Heath and "honorary grandson", Aron Conley. He is also survived by many brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews and other family.

Visitation will be Friday from 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM at Lockstone Funeral Home of Thomas. A funeral service for Bert will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, July 11, 2026 at the Thomas High School Auditorium. Burial will follow at Liberty Cemetery in Fay.