STREAM EXCLUSIVE ORIGINALS

Robert Godwin's Grief-Stricken Friends and Family Remember Him as a 'Good Guy Who'd Give You the Shirt Off His Back'

The 74-year-old victim leaves behind nine children.

The death of Robert Godwin, 74, has not only struck the nation with grief, but it took a devastating toll on his family. Godwin, who had nine children of his own, leaves behind a large family that held him in high esteem. 

Godwin's son Robert Godwin Jr. was horrified to learn about his father's death and even more upset about the video showing his final moments. 

"I haven't watched the video. I haven't even looked at my cellphone or the news," Godwin said, as reported by Cleveland.com. "I don't really want to see it."

  • Robert Godwin Sr. had nine children, 14 grandchildren and many great grandchildren. 

    According to Godwin Jr., his father was out collecting aluminum cans when he was approached by Steve Stephens, who pulled out a gun and killed him. 

    Godwin was last seen by his son on Easter morning. Godwin Sr. went to his son's house to pick up a piece of basketball equipment. 

    "He hugged my wife and me and said, 'I'll see you guys next time,'" Godwin Jr. told Cleveland.com. "I said, 'OK, enjoy your Easter.'"

  • Godwin's family spoke to reporters and emotionally said 'he'd give you the shirt off his back'

  • Godwin's story and image became a national point of conversation

  • Additionally, many urged the users of Twitter and Facebook to abstain from sharing the video of his death

    Godwin's family also said they have no official GoFundMe page set up. If you come across a crowd funding page in Robert Godwin's name, do not donate. 

Latest News

Subscribe for BET Updates

Provide your email address to receive our newsletter.


By clicking Subscribe, you confirm that you have read and agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge our Privacy Policy. You also agree to receive marketing communications, updates, special offers (including partner offers) and other information from BET and the Paramount family of companies. You understand that you can unsubscribe at any time.