As the search for Ryan T. “JJ” Godbey nears the end of its second week, the close-knit community the 26-year-old Canton resident called home has united to raise both awareness and money.
Darlin’s CREW, an LGBTQ+ bar and nightclub located at 302 Cherry Ave. NE, where Godbey was scheduled to perform the weekend after their June 19 disappearance, hosted a drag show benefit and vigil on July 2 to support the family.
Participating drag entertainers agreed to donate all tips, with proceeds going toward a $5,000 reward fund and to assist family members who have taken personal time from work to search for Godbey. Additionally, Darlin’s CREW owner Dave Hite pledged 10% of all bar sales on July 2 to the cause.
“I feel bad for the family. What if that would happen to me? What if that would happen to him?” Hite said, gesturing to a passerby. “You know, what if? There’s a lot of ‘what ifs.’ It’s hard to have a clear thought because you don’t know what’s happened.”
Hite’s sentiments mirror the uncertainty that continues to swirl around the case. According to multiple news reports, Godbey was last seen leaving Darlin’s CREW on June 19 at approximately 11 p.m. Police have allegedly informed the family there were signs of a struggle at Godbey’s apartment. Jackie Godbey, Ryan’s mother, has also said her son’s seizure medication and cats were left behind.
Godbey’s credit card and driver’s license were reportedly found near Interstate 77 by the Pro Football Hall of Fame. On June 24, police arrested two people. The man and woman, both 38, were taken into custody on charges of aggravated possession of drugs and criminal trespass after investigators attempted to question them in relation to Godbey’s disappearance. Godbey was officially reported missing on June 22.
Despite the potentially troubling developments, dozens of supporters gathered with Godbey’s family at Darlin’s CREW for the benefit. Performers and volunteers at the event spoke of their determination to see Godbey found. After the performances, the crowd moved to the street to hold a vigil outside the bar, lighting candles and chanting for Godbey’s safe return.
“Let’s get the family through this night and we’ll take it day by day and hope that everybody is good,” Hite said. “We do want [Ryan] to come home. That’s what this is about.”
