Bruce Armstrong Godfrey

Bruce Armstrong Godfrey, age 84, born June 22, 1941, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026. Bruce liked a good story — especially one that stretched the truth just enough to make people laugh. However, you knew him, his life was marked by adventure, imagination, and a willingness to follow what interested him most.

A New Englander at heart, Bruce loved the coast—from Maine to Massachusetts and down to the Caribbean Islands. He was raised in Boxford, Massachusetts, and graduated from Boxford High School in 1959. He went on to attend New England College, where he formed lifelong friendships with those drawn to his imagination, honesty, creativity, and adventurous spirit.

Bruce began his career as a commercial airline pilot, flying into his early 40s before leaving the skies to take to the sea, lobstering out of Marblehead Harbor. He later owned Marblehead Lobster Company and eventually brought his love of engineering and problem-solving to carpentry, building and working with his hands in a way that reflected his natural curiosity about how things worked.

He was known for his unmistakable laugh and his ability to bring humor into everyday life. He did what he loved, and he did it with intention—leaving a lasting impression in the many small, meaningful moments: cheering along the sidelines, standing behind the glass at hockey rinks, and in the steady, everyday presence he shared with those around him. He chose a life that allowed him to be there for his family, and in doing so, quietly shaped the lives of those he loved most.

At the center of his life was his wife, Ellen, with whom he shared a deep and enduring bond. Together, they navigated life’s many chapters with resilience, faith, and the support of friends and community, for which the family is deeply grateful.

Bruce is preceded in death by his mother, Elsie Armstrong Godfrey; his father, Warren Rounsville Godfrey; and his sister, Susan Wirtz. He is survived by his wife, Ellen; his children, Damon Matthew Godfrey of Miami; Jill Evelyn Maumus (Cullan) of New Orleans; and Dennis Keenan Godfrey (Allie) of Marblehead, Massachusetts; and his loving grandsons: Reef Armstrong Godfrey, Koa Barry Godfrey, Maddox Armstrong Maumus, Graham Godfrey Maumus, Reece McFarland Maumus, and Soren Douglas Godfrey, as well as many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and his soon-to-arrive granddaughter.

A service to celebrate Bruce’s life is being scheduled for summer. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that those who knew Bruce take a moment to tell a good story, follow their interests, or spend time by the water in his memory. And when you find yourself in the easy company of a dog at your side, taking something apart just to see how it works, or laughing a little harder than expected — know Bruce is with you.