It is with deep sadness than NACS announces the passing of 1991-1992 NACS Chairman Thurman “T.C.” Columbus Godwin Jr., who died on February 21 at the age of 85.

Godwin got his start in the convenience store business in Dunn, North Carolina, by founding the small regional chain T-Mart Food Stores, which was known for its fried chicken.

In a 2002 NACS interview, Godwin said that he got into the convenience store business somewhat by accident.

“I had a friend who was a silent partner in the first convenience food mart in North Carolina. Every time he and I got together he was talking about this store. So I developed some interest in it and started looking around. A close friend was also interested and we started going out on Sunday afternoons, riding around looking at convenience stores, and finally got to the point where we were doing performance statements trying to figure out how you could make money in this business. And that’s how I got started in the convenience store business.”

After a few years in business, Godwin attended the 1973 NACS Annual Meeting.

“I was so excited about being there and seeing what was going on and talking to other people in the business. I remember a forum where some of the industry leaders [were on] stage and talked about being in business and how things had been with them. It was like going to a great movie—I just really enjoyed it. I don’t think I missed a NACS meeting since,” said Godwin in his 2002 interview.

As chairman, Godwin oversaw NACS advocacy and research efforts related to laws in Florida that required two clerks on duty at convenience stores between 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., plus additional security requirements. NACS worked with security analysts to define research-driven security measures and their effectiveness within a c-store environment.

“My NACS experience was really wonderful, particularly coming from a small company like mine. When I look at all the people who were chairmen before me it was a humbling experience because some of the greatest people in this business have been chairmen of NACS. I was in awe of being able to follow in their footsteps,” said Godwin.

Godwin honorably served in the United States Air Force before continuing his education at Campbell College. In addition to founding T-Mart, he was the owner of Senior Helpers in Dunn and Wilmington, dedicating much of his life to serving his community.

Godwin was a passionate North Carolina Tar Heels fan and loved to travel, play golf and spend time with his family. He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Faye Godwin, and his brother, Steve Godwin. Left behind to cherish his memory are his daughters Angela Godwin of Dunn, Natalie Garner and husband Ducky of Wilmington, and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held Wednesday, February 25 at First Presbyterian Church in Dunn.