In Memoriam of Lee Godfrey
Texas Appleseed joins the legal community in mourning the loss of Lee Godfrey, who died on June 2, 2025. Throughout his long and successful career, Lee always prioritized giving back to his community and encouraging pro bono work that benefits nonprofits like Texas Appleseed.
“Lee Godfrey was a legal titan whose brilliance and integrity helped shape modern trial law and whose generous spirit touched the lives of many,” said Laranda Walker, Secretary-Treasurer for Texas Appleseed’s Board of Directors and partner at Susman Godfrey. “ As a founding partner of Susman Godfrey, his legacy continues to champion justice through bold, client-centered advocacy.”
In 2013, the Texas Appleseed Board of Directors honored Lee with the J. Chrys Dougherty Good Apple Award, which recognizes individuals whose work has had a positive, lasting effect in Texas. His commitment to justice, dedicated community service, and extensive pro bono work perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the award.
A Susman Godfrey attorney has served on Texas Appleseed’s board since its inception in 1996, thanks largely to the culture that Lee fostered at his firm. Our nonprofit relies on a network of pro bono partners and board members to achieve our mission of promoting social, economic, and racial justice for all Texans, and our efforts would not be as impactful without these important partnerships.
In 1982, Lee joined Steve Susman to form Susman Godfrey. Together, they grew the firm into a legendary litigation boutique that is regularly recognized as among the best in the country. His illustrious career is marked by many awards and recognitions, including being named a Texas Exes Distinguished Alumnus and being nominated by President Bill Clinton to serve as the United States Ambassador to Brazil.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know him.