Philadelphia Tribune, The (PA) - Thursday, May 23, 2019

Davida C. Godett, 43, advocate for stroke awareness

Davida C. Godett, an advocate for stroke awareness, died on Monday, May 13, 2019, after a lengthy health battle. She was 43.

She was born on May 21, 1975 in Philadelphia. She was one of two daughters born to Theresa and the late David Godett.

She was baptized at the age of 13 at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church under the leadership of the Rev. Albert Campbell. She was educated in Bucks County, attending Villa Joseph Marie High School during her sophomore and junior year. She graduated from Bensalem High School, where she reunited with her childhood friends.

Godett had a passion for learning. She earned a bachelor's degree in accounting from Widener University and a master's in business administration with a concentration in management from Strayer University. She held higher education certificates from the Institute of Ethical Leadership of Rutgers University, a certificate of volunteer management from La Salle University and certificate from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College in building a high performance business in healthcare. She also has certificates in the Stage 1 and Stage 2 Lego Serious Play Method in organizational and individual development.

Godett was certified in Biblical counseling and as a soul coach, where she uses A.D.D. (Acquire Defined Directions) for organizations and individuals through life coaching. She was studying to become a licensed minister under the leadership of her pastor.

Godett was the founder and president of Caterpillar to Butterfly, LLC, an organization that uses Lego Serious Play and MTA Learning Experience coupled with knowledge and life experience to help individuals and groups gain "their wings." Her signature workshops "My Health, My Wealth" encouraged individuals to take control of their current health issues and look at their family dynamics to live a healthier life. Godett also empowered people through speaking engagements at Philadelphia Gas Works, Inc., Keystone East Health Plan, Merck Pharmaceutical, Temple University and the Pennsylvania Conference for Women.

"Davida has taken adverse situations in her life and helped give 'wings of hope' to those in her presence," her family said in a tribute. "She has passionately impacted the lives of family, friends, corporations, nonprofits, faith-based organizations and community centers. She delivered keynotes and workshops to help foster a healthier, prosperous you."

Godett was featured by various media outlets to spread the word on the importance of stroke knowledge. Her voice was heard on Dr. Oz, HLN, ABC, NBC, Comcast Network, Clear Channel and the Philadelphia Speak-Up. Goddett's work was published in The Black Professionals Newspaper, Philadelphia Magazine, The Philadelphia Tribune, The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Bucks County Courier Times and USA Today.

She is the recipient of the WDAS Second Annual Mary J. Blige Award for perseverance and courage.

In late 2009, Godett began the process of taking her adverse experience to another level and in August 2010, she launched "Healthy Thoughts," a nonprofit organization that spreads stroke awareness in the community and provides support to stroke survivors and their families. In 2016, she initiated the Order My Steps 5K stroke walk.

Godett helped individuals understand that adversity doesn't mean the end, through her book titled "The Promise," which was published in 2017.

"Davida had a caring and giving heart," her family said. "She expressed it in many ways, utilizing her gift to connect with people. She would give encouraging words that helped change the lives of others."

Godett was well known for her love of God, her children and education. She enjoyed traveling, eating at various restaurants and had a love of shoes and handbags.

In addition to her mother, she is survived by: her sister, Samia; brother-in-law, Donald; son, Chauncey and his father, Clarence Richardson; daughters, Gianna and Gemiah and their father, Gerald Clarkson; stepson, Lil' Gerald; niece, Sai; nephews, London and Vegas; godmothers, Joann, Cheryl and Deborah; godfather, Melvin and other relatives and friends.

Services were held May 23 at Christian Life Center, 3100 Galloway Road, Bensalem. She is buried in Resurrection Cemetery.

Terry Funeral Home handled the arrangements.