Godfrey Family Genealogy & History

Linsey Godfrey is a prominent American actress renowned for her roles on popular soap operas. She gained fame as Caroline Spencer on CBS's "The Bold and the Beautiful" and later as Sarah Horton on NBC's "Days of Our Lives." Godfrey's acting journey began in high school and she quickly emerged as a talent in the industry, despite a two-year setback due to Hodgkin's lymphoma. Her resilience and dedication to her craft have earned her numerous guest-starring roles and a dedicated fan base. Besides acting, Godfrey is involved in advocacy work, notably serving as a celebrity ambassador for INARA, an NGO providing medical aid to war-affected children.

Linsey Godfrey was raised in Stuart, Florida, by her mother, Char Griggs. Her family played a crucial support role in her early acting career, with her mother working multiple jobs to help finance Godfrey's auditions in Los Angeles. This familial support was pivotal in her success as a young actress transitioning to Hollywood.

Mary Emmeline Godfrey was a pioneering African-American artist and educator, notably the first full-time African-American faculty member at Penn State University, serving as an assistant professor of art education from 1957 to 1979. She earned her credentials from the Pratt Institute and Columbia University, emphasizing her dedication to art education. Godfrey contributed significantly to the field through her research on art classroom design and her influential teachings on art education history. Her art, including pieces like "Art Lesson" and "Lady with Cat," has been showcased at the Pennsylvania State University Palmer Museum of Art, underscoring her impact on both academia and the art world.

Mary Godfrey was born in Charlotte Court House, Virginia, as one of eight children to Henry B. Godfrey and Louise (née Reid) Godfrey. The family balanced life between their farm in Virginia and a residence in New York City, where Henry managed a business. Her siblings included notable figures like Stella Godfrey White Bigham, a Cleveland community activist and journalist, and Ruth Godfrey Gibson, a skilled quilter. This diverse and accomplished family backdrop played a crucial role in shaping Mary Godfrey's path and achievements.

Marjorie Godfrey was a prominent Anglo-Indian figure in Indian politics and education, recognized for her influential roles as a nominated member of the 5th Lok Sabha and the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly. Born on 29 March 1919 in Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, Godfrey was instrumental in founding The Catholic Association of Hyderabad and served as the Superintendent-in-Charge of Examinations and Selections for 17 years. Her contributions extended to her positions on the Central Social Welfare Advisory Board and as Vice President of the All India Anglo-Indian Association. She was a key representative for Andhra Pradesh at the Inter-State Board for Anglo-Indian Education, highlighting her commitment to educational and social welfare causes.

Marjorie's personal life included her marriage to Allen Godfrey on 10 January 1949, with whom she had two children. Her daughter, Della Godfrey, followed in her footsteps and became a nominated member of the Andhra Pradesh state assembly, indicating a continuation of public service within the family. Marjorie Godfrey's passing on 27 October 2003 was mourned by organizations such as the Andhra Pradesh Council of Churches and The Catholic Association of Hyderabad, underscoring her significant impact on the community.

Della Godfrey was a prominent Indian politician from the Anglo-Indian community, recognized for her contributions as a nominated Anglo-Indian member of the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly representing the Telugu Desam Party. She served for two terms, showcasing her commitment to public service and political engagement within the region. Godfrey also had a career as a manager at the Royal Dutch Airlines, highlighting her versatile professional background. Her political career extended until 2004, and she left a lasting impact on her community until her passing on April 23, 2019.

Born and raised in Hyderabad, Della Godfrey came from a distinguished family. Her father, Allen Godfrey, was an engineer at the Royal Mint for the Nizam of Hyderabad, while her mother, Marjorie Godfrey, served as an educationalist, MP, and MLA. This illustrious family background significantly influenced Della's path in politics and public service.