Rev. Herman R. Goddard, 87, of Covington, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2019. A longtime resident of Newton County, Rev. Goddard was employed with Bibb Manufacturing for more than 20 years before going into the ministry. As pastor of Gaithers United Methodist Church in Covington, it was under his guidance and leadership that the church grew from only a handful of members to a congregation of over eight hundred. In his earlier days, Rev. Goddard enjoyed camping, working in his garden and traveling. For the past four years he and his wife, Grace, were well cared for by the loving and attentive staff at Merryvale Assisted Living in Covington. Rev. Goddard was preceded in death by his daughter, Kathy Allen; son, Rick Goddard; parents, Forrest A. and Effie C. (Turner) Goddard; sister, Lois Dalton; and brothers, F.A. Goddard, Harold Goddard. 

Survivors include the love of his life and wife of 69 years, Grace (Brock) Goddard; son-in-law, Richard Allen; daughter-in-law, Janice M. Goddard; grandsons, Jon Allen and wife, Sarah, Nick Goddard and wife, Scarlett, Evan Goddard and wife, Kristen; great-grandchildren, Noah Goddard, Evelyn Goddard; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Service for Rev. Herman R. Goddard was held at 3 p.m. Friday, Jan. 11, at Caldwell & Cowan Funeral Home, 1215 Access Road, in Covington, with Richard Allen and Pastor Darrell Payne officiating and interment following in Lawnwood Memorial Park, Covington. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Refuge Center, 1307 Milstead Avenue, Conyers, GA 30012.