Raymond Joseph “Joe” Edwards, formerly of St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away Aug 8 in Gulf Shores, Alabama after his big heart finally gave up. He was born Nov 20, 1943 in San Diego, CA to Ira Calvin Edwards and Meta Elizabeth (Welty) Edwards, both formerly of St. Joseph. Ira was in the Navy at the time stationed in San Diego, thus making Joe a “Navy brat”, and destined to move every few years, a trait he kept for the rest of his life.
Joe had many careers and many businesses, and lived in many places during his active life. While in high school he was one of the founders of the Crusaders Car Club, and remained a member throughout adulthood. He joined the Marine Corps shortly after graduating from Central High, and during his enlistment he married and had his first child. After his discharge from active duty, his new family moved to Napa, CA where his parents were now residing. A phone company career began shortly afterward, and he remained involved in the telecommunications and computer world for the rest of his working life.
During retirement, Joe “wheeled and dealed” in the classic car world, and even bought and renewed a golf course. He could do and fix just about anything, and he was generous to a fault.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Joseph “Joey” Warren Edwards. He is survived by his partner of 35 years, Sharon Lee Brown of Gulf Shores,AL, his brother Calvin Edwards (Sue) of Kettle Falls, WA, his daughters Catherine “Lyn” Worrell (Chris) of Wichita, KS and Jennifer Mary Clark (J.R.Ward) of Windsor, CA, plus 5 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He will be missed by all.
Graveside Farewell Service and Interment 3:00 P.M. Friday, Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 1:00 to 3:00 P.M. Friday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. The procession will leave from Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Joe would prefer everyone wear casual, comfortable clothes.
