Normal remembers former Mayor Richard Godfrey, dead at 91

Posted on January 14, 2025
Richard Godfrey was 91. (Photo courtesy: Town of Normal)

By WMBD TV

NORMAL – The Town of Normal is remembering a former mayor who had a significant economic impact on the town.

According to his obituary, Former Town of Normal Mayor Richard Godfrey died earlier this month at the age of 91.

He served as mayor of Normal from 1976 to 1985, a town Facebook post stated. During his time as Mayor, he had several economic development programs, including building the College Hills indoor shopping mall and sending an invitation to Mitsubishi to come to Normal.

Godfrey was also one of 17 selected to travel to Cuba during a State Department trip to meet with Fidel Castro as an ambassador for President Jimmy Carter’s quest to open relations with the country.

“Our hearts go out to the Godfrey family, friends, and all who were touched by his legacy. The Town honors his memory by continuing the work of building a community rooted in kindness, progress and unity,” the town’s post stated.

A visitation for Godfrey will be held at the Holy Name Cathedral, located at 735 State St. in Chicago, at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, followed by a mass at 10:30 a.m. Those who plan to attend are encouraged to wear bright colors.

WMBD can be reached at [email protected].

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