Ada Marie Godley

Ada Marie Godley peacefully departed this life on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. She was born on September 11, 1949. She was preceded in death by her parents, Alfred Lee and Willie Mae Mathis; her adopted parents, Walter and Ada M. Godley; her sister, Mary L. Sinyan; and her niece, Diette Lewis.

Ada was a proud graduate of King High School in Kingsville, Texas. She continued her education at Texas A&I University (now Texas A&M University–Kingsville), graduating in 1973 with degrees in Applied Music (Vocal) and Music Education. Throughout her distinguished career as a music educator with the Corpus Christi Independent School District, she taught multiple grade levels and instructed students in a variety of instruments and musical disciplines. Her influence in the classroom shaped generations of young musicians.

Her Christian journey began at King Star Missionary Baptist Church, where her love for music and ministry flourished. A gifted and anointed soloist, many will forever remember her rendering of "Blessed Assurance." She faithfully served as Minister of Music at King Star, offering her gifts with humility and devotion. Though she never sought titles such as pioneer, legend, or trendsetter, her life's work stands as testimony to each of those distinctions.

Classically trained as a mezzo-soprano, Ada was an operatic vocalist who seamlessly embraced sacred and secular traditions alike. She taught, performed, and ministered across diverse genres including gospel, hymns, spirituals, praise and worship, popular music, and classical repertoire. Her artistry graced churches, community organizations, and professional venues, leaving an indelible mark on every stage she touched.

Ada was an active member of the Corpus Christi Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated; the Corpus Christi Chorale; the Kingdom of Christ Community Singers; and she was the co-founder and director of the Corpus Christi Interdenominational Citywide Choir. Among her many honors were the Passing the Torch Concert Series I & II recognition as a music pioneer and educator, finalist distinction in the Tanglewood Music Vocal Arts Fellowship Program, and recognition from the Kingdom of Christ for Excellence and Achievement in Music.

Known for her generous spirit and gentle strength, Ada was deeply loved. She was the Godmother of Jessicah S. S. Heard, God-sister to her beloved caregiver, Louis Franklin Harper, and she held a special connection with her Great-nephews Art'Darius Lewis and Deshaun Lewis. Proverbs 18:24 reminds us, "There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother," and Reverend William N. Heard embodied that truth in their lifelong bond. Though distance sometimes separated them, their connection remained steadfast and unbreakable — a testament to the profound impact Ada had on those she cherished.

Her beautiful life will be lovingly remembered and treasured by her siblings: Alfred L. Mathis III (Gwen) of Las Vegas, Nevada; Vera O. Frazier of DeSoto, Texas; Arthurine Lewis of Houston, Texas; Murray D. Mathis (Clarice) of Azusa, California; and Diedra D. Mathis of Barstow, California. She also leaves to cherish her memory a host of beloved nephews and nieces: Samuel Russell III of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Kris Russell of Franklin, Massachusetts; Andrea Mathis of Victorville, California; VaNessa Frazier of DeSoto, Texas; George Frazier IV of Victorville, California; Tina Robertson of Houston, Texas; Craig Lewis of Houston, Texas; DeMarcus Spicer of Fontana, California; and Monique Harris of Barstow, California; along with countless extended family members, friends, students, and colleagues whose lives she enriched beyond measure.

Ada Marie Godley's legacy of music, ministry, mentorship, and love will continue to resonate in every life she touched. Her song may have ended here, but its melody lives on.