Jennifer Lee Goddard

Jennifer Lee Goddard, née Henry, passed away peacefully in Urbana, Ohio, on September 13, 2026. She was born on February 23, 1950, in Chillicothe, Ohio, and will be remembered with deep love by all who knew her.

Jennifer built a life centered on faith, family, learning, and service to others. She graduated from Springfield North High School and went on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Wright State University, followed by a Master’s Degree in Education from Urbana University.

She devoted her career to education as a beloved fifth-grade teacher at Graham Elementary School, where she taught with care, patience, and commitment until her retirement in 2015. Over the years, her steady presence and dedication in the classroom touched the lives of countless students and families. Teaching was more than a profession for Jennifer; it was one of the ways she gave of herself to others and contributed to the community she loved.

Outside the classroom, Jennifer found joy in the quiet pleasures that reflected her thoughtful nature. She loved cross-stitching, was an avid reader, and enjoyed watching game shows, especially Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. Her faith remained an important part of her life, and she was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Urbana.

Above all, Jennifer treasured her family. She is survived by her loving husband, Richard Goddard, with whom she shared more than 55 years of her life in marriage; her son and daughter-in-law, Jeff and Rachel Goddard; her brother and sister-in-law, Chris and Pam Henry; her granddaughters, Sarah, Maren, and Ellie Goddard; sister-in-law, Mary Goddard and numerous nieces and nephews.

She also leaves behind Debby Goddard, her cherished friend and sister-in-law, whose presence in her life was a special blessing. Those who loved Jennifer will remember her for the care she gave so freely, the example she set, and the warmth and steadiness she brought to her family.

Jennifer was preceded in death by her parents, James and Laura (Newton) Henry; her beloved son, Mark Goddard; her granddaughter, Hannah Goddard; her brother, Mark Henry; and her sister, Kathleen Rubach, and brother-in-law, John Rubach. Their memories remained an important part of her life and story, and she now rests in peace among those who went before her.

A memorial gathering will be held on September 26, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Walter & Lewis Funeral and Cremation Center, 642 S. Main St., Urbana, Ohio 43078. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Jennifer’s life was one of devotion, kindness, and enduring love. Her memory will continue to live on in her family, in the many students she taught, and in all who were fortunate enough to know her.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Graham Elementary PTO, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, in honor of Jennifer’s life and her many years of dedication to education. Contributions will help support Graham Elementary teachers and their classroom needs, allowing Jennifer’s legacy to continue inspiring learning, nurturing young minds, and strengthening the school community she cared for so deeply.

Checks may be made payable to Graham Elementary PTO, with “Jennifer Goddard” noted in the memo line, and mailed to:

Graham Elementary PTO9464 US 36St. Paris, OH 43072

Checks may also be taken directly to First Central National Bank. Electronic donations may be made through PayPal to Graham Elementary PTO or grahamespto@gmail.com with a "Jennifer Goddard" note.