Robert Baird Godley

Robert Baird Godley Jr., of Benson, North Carolina passed away on Friday, February 23, 2024. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. 

Baird lived a life filled with love, laughter, and dedication to his family and friends. He is survived by his wife Abigail Cabrera of Benson, North Carolina and was a devoted father to his two sons, Robert Baird Godley III (Shelby) of Leland, North Carolina, Thomas McLean Godley of Charlotte, North Carolina, and cherished his role as grandfather to Robert Baird Godley IV. He valued helping to raise his stepchildren Jonathan Adan Mendoza (Bella Kate), Evelyn Marie Mendoza, and Miaah Anaiz Romero of Benson, North Carolina. Additionally, he is survived by his sister Julie Borden Godley of Wilmington, North Carolina and his first wife, Susannah Thomas Bell of Greensboro, North Carolina. Baird was preceded in death by his mother, Julia Wenberg Godley and his father, Robert Baird Godley of Wilmington, North Carolina. 

Baird was born on April 25, 1962, in Barberton, Ohio. He graduated from John T. Hoggard High School in Wilmington, North Carolina, in 1980, and went on to earn a degree from North Carolina State University in Raleigh, North Carolina, in 1984, where he was a proud brother of Sigma Nu Fraternity. He was a dedicated NC State fan and loved going to football and basketball games to cheer on the Wolfpack with his family and friends. Baird built a successful, long-term career in the equipment rentals and sales industry and co-founded his family owned and operated business, Tool House, with his wife Abi, providing concrete and masonry tools to clients throughout the Triangle Area. 

Baird was a wonderfully kind, generous, and devoted man who was admired by many. He was a pillar of strength to his two sons and made a larger-than-life impact on them while inspiring them to aim for success and excel in every aspect of their lives. The greatest gift that he gave to Baird and McLean was that he truly believed in them and encouraged them to follow their dreams. His unwavering support, love, and encouragement is what gave his children a chance to become men. 

Baird enjoyed traveling the world and never met a beach he did not love. In recent years, he dedicated significant time, energy, and resources to numerous home improvement projects to create the backyard of his dreams for all to enjoy. Additionally, he touched the lives of many children throughout the state of North Carolina through his Youth Sports volunteer work. 

Baird's family and friends are very fortunate and grateful to have had such a caring and kind man in their lives. As he wished, A Celebration of Life will be held at Rose & Graham Funeral Home in Benson, North Carolina on Saturday, March 2 at 11:00 AM. Please send flower arrangements to Rose & Graham Funeral Home in remembrance of Baird at 301 W Main Street, Benson, North Carolina 27504.

Arrangements by Rose & Graham Funeral Home of Benson.