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Bernard W. Edwards, Sr.


Sunrise: July 26, 1947

Sunset: April 23, 2020

Bernard Woodson Edwards, Sr. was born in Norfolk, Virginia on July 26, 1947, to the late Dewey McCoy Edwards and Gloria Marybell Robinson. He was the third child born in this union. On April 23, 2020, he silently left us to go home with the Lord and have eternal peace.

Bernard was educated in the Norfolk public school system. He attended Booker T. Washington High School, where he played the trumpet in the prestigious BTW Marching Band. Following the footsteps of his brothers, Dewey and Ray, he left high school in 1966 to join the United States Marine Corps. Upon the completion of his military basic training, he was deployed to the Vietnam War. Unfortunately his tour of duty was shortened, due to life threating injuries sustained, causing him to be hospitalized for a year. Bernard was permanently retired by reason of Physical Disability. He received many awards, certificates and decorations i.e. earning the highest achievable medal, the Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

On July 28, 1968 Bernard married Andrea Lee Riddick and of this union three children were born (Dawn, Bernard Jr. and Kyle). Bernard later attended Norfolk State University and worked several jobs before his health declined. He was employed with the US Postal Service, Norfolk Naval Air Station, Frito Lay Company, Kramer Tire Company and Beth
Sholom Bingo Hall. Also known as “Bernie and Tight Eye” to some, he was a handy man who enjoyed working on cars and painting homes from the inside out. At family gatherings, Bernard was always the life of the party. He enjoyed dancing, playing cards and being surrounded by family and friends.

In addition to his father, Bernard is pre-deceased by his brother, Ray LaMarr Edwards, Sr. and his sister, Gloria Marilyn Edwards Ervin. He leaves to cherish his memories, a wife, Andrea R. Edwards of Norfolk, Virginia; one daughter, Dawn M. Hill-Trotman of Silver Spring, MD; two sons, Bernard W. Edwards, Jr. (Margo) of Hampton, VA and Kyle R. Edwards (Shemika) of Chesapeake, VA; five grandchildren, Donnell M. Hill of Washington, DC; Danielle A. Hill of Union, NJ; Dayjah B. Edwards of Virginia Beach, VA; Samuel N. Edwards-Trotman of Boyds, MD and Kaylen R. Edwards of Chesapeake, VA; his mother, Gloria M. Freeman of Boyds, MD; one brother, Dewey G.R. Edwards of Boyds, MD; two sisters, Denise E. Casey (Ronnie) of Lithonia, GA and Lori F. Scott of North Potomac, MD and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.

Viewing Wednesday, May 6, 2020 2:00pm - 6:00pm Metropolitan Funeral Service 7246 Granby Street Norfolk, VA 23505 Private Service WATCH SERVICE LIVE ONLINE Thursday, May 7, 2020 10:00am Metropolitan Funeral Service Granby Chapel Interment Albert G. Horton Veteran's Cemetery 5310 Milners Road Suffolk, VA 23434 The family is following the CDC and State of Virginia guidelines for funeral attendance.

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Condolences(28)

  1. reply
    Griffins says

    We are so grief-stricken for losing another member of our family. It never gets easier to deal with mankind’s common enemy (death). Psalm 34:18 lets us know, however, that God is with the brokenhearted. We all can take comfort in that. Love,
    The Griffins

    • reply
      Toni isaac says

      May you rest in Jesus arms. Prayers to your family

      Rest Bernard rest
      Ike and Toni isaac

    • reply
      Debra Fairley says

      My sincerest condolences to the family. I know that God’s infinite wisdom is best and so he called Bernard home. Peace with the Heavenly Father is a blessing and Bernard has been blessed. May God continue to embrace the family.

    • reply
      Constance Mamma and family says

      Andrea and Kids: you have our sincerest condolences on the passing of your husband, father and grandfather. May God strengthen you. and give you peace, as you remember the good times and the knowledge that suffering is no more. God bless you.

  2. reply
    Mary Gaymon says

    I will truly miss you Uncle Bernard. Take your rest in the arms of the Lord. You put up a good fight. God knows best. I’m still your favorite Nurse Mary. I Love and miss you today and forever. Love Mary Gaymon

  3. reply
    Rev. Dr. James " Screwball " Edwards, lll says

    Rev. Dee and I send our condolences to my family members on the passing of my cousin and friend Bernard. Truly we shall all miss him and think of the good times we had together as the Edwards’ clan. Take your rest Vietnam veteran for we are only required to do our best and our best is not in comparison to someone else’s. Your first cousin on your father’s side.

  4. reply
    Ms Linda & Sean says

    Kim, may you find comfort in knowing that Uncle Bernard is in God’s perfect peace.

  5. reply
    Patsy says

    Kim, words will not wipe away your tears,and hugs may not ease the pain. But hold onto all your beautiful memories, because forever they will remain. May Our Father give you comfort and peace in this time of sorrow.

  6. reply
    Patricia Smith says

    Heartfelt sympathies to
    the family. Uncle B. Take your flight and rest In Jesus arms. You fought a long hard but a great fight.
    Lasting memories of our time together. Kim, you did a SUPERB, job of showering love a 100% of care giving. To God be the glory!????????????

  7. reply
    Donnell says

    Ima miss you so much pop you made me the man I am today I learned it all from you i never really had nobody so I always knew in some form you had my back feels like I lost my bestfriend even on your last days I would talk to you and I know you heard me the pain becomes realer and realer day by day I never thought I would loose you your grandson donnell

    • reply
      Velda Jackson says

      May 6, 2020 11:40 am
      Kim, i am praying for you and your family as you experience the end of what has been a life changing experience. My deepest condolences to you and your husband, Mother Freeman, Mr. Dewey, and all other family members. I know that you will be ok with time because you are a strong woman.
      But i also know that the toughest part is not during the time when you must prepare to say goodbye and bury a loved one, but when you must now adjust your routine that has existed for so many years.
      Remember, create new life in that space so thay you will not forever walk by it and only remember the pain of your loss. Nothing is better than a new outlook. Bring new life where there is darkness.
      Thank you for being you, and entrusting your family in my care. Your generous heart and loving kindness has forever left a lasting imprint on my heart. You are truly a blessing to everyone you come in contact with. I am so very happy that i had the pleasure of meeting you and your family. I have truly been blessed……..just to have known you! YOU ARE THE BLESSING!
      Ms Jackson

  8. reply
    Brenda(Cookie) Wilkins says

    Sincere Condolences to the family. Bernard was a kind and caring friend and the memories and love will last forever❤️. Rest in Heavenly Love my friend.

  9. reply
    Erika Conner says

    Kim and family, A life well-lived and a family well-loved, Mr. Bernard leaves a legacy of strength and humility for his family and friends to uphold. He is the angel that knows your name and is surrounding you with love. May God keep, comfort, and fill your hearts with loving memories of your beloved Uncle Bernard.

  10. reply
    Dorothy Williams says

    Aunt Gloria, Kim, Cheryl, Tina, Karen, and Bernard children, nieces, nephew, cousins, and friends, take comfort in knowing that Bernard in home where he belongs I remember staying next door we at 915, them at 917 Tidewater Drive the fun we had together. May God, give you the strength in this time of sorrow, Kim job well done. ” Till we reach that distance shore and we shed a tear no more, God give you strength to endure till you meet again”. Rest in Peace Bernard.

  11. reply
    Dorothy Williams says

    Andrea, and Gene forgive me for omitting your name when I posted my condolences to the family of Bernard W. Edwards, my prayers are with you also in this your time of sorrow, May God give you the comfort and strength you need at this time.

  12. reply
    Hermella Johnson says

    Dear Mrs Kim Ervin-Fairley,

    I thank God for you and your kind heart towards your family. I admire you for how you lovingly cared for Mr. Bernard Edwards, Sr. during his long illness.
    I had the privilege of caring for him in his fragile condition for about one week on night duty in your home.
    You set up a home system for Mr Edward’s care that to me, was better than any nursing home or medical facility.
    You provided a friendly, clean environment for caregivers to feel comfortable in and desire to give the best care possible. That is the way I felt and would always thank Mrs. Jackson for the opportunity to work with her and you under your guidance.
    I pray for you and your family; I thank God for fortitude that He has given you to continue the journey, even in the time of grief. I pray for “Grandma and Uncle,” and for you Kim. May the Joy of the Lord be your strength. May the thanksgiving in your heart continue to be your fortitude to manage  the trials and test of life. May you know the Peace that passeth all understanding, trusting in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, the authors and finisher of our faith. Blessed be the name of the LORD!!!

  13. reply
    Shirley Benning says

    Kim, my dearest friend ❤️,first I am so sorry to hear this news my prayers go out to you and your family, and I pray for your strength and comfort.

    Now let me say this you were a faithful and loving servant. You were a dillegent loving warrior, I witnessed you fight everyday to secure and ensure your uncle’s well being everyday. And I’m sure his spirit is thanking you right now.

    Of course If there’s anything I can do, do not hesitate to call me.

    ❣️My prayerful regards,

  14. reply
    Juliana Mitchell says

    Kim please accept my sincere condolences for you and your family. It was a great honor to assist you and your family in taking care of your uncle.
    I learned so much from you not only from the nursing aspect but about the healing power of love.
    There was no doubt in my mind that he felt the love and he was holding on just for you. You are are truly blessed.

    I pray that the Lord gives you the strength to be a able to console your other uncle and your grandmother. They are two wonderful people.

    Please thank your sons and your husband for their kindness that they showed me while I was in your home.????????

  15. reply
    Velda Jackson says

    May 6, 2020 11:40 am
    Kim, i am praying for you and your family as you experience the end of what has been a life changing experience. My deepest condolences to you and your husband, Mother Freeman, Mr. Dewey, and all other family members. I know that you will be ok with time because you are a strong woman.
    But i also know that the toughest part is not during the time when you must prepare to say goodbye and bury a loved one, but when you must now adjust your routine that has existed for so many years.
    Remember, create new life in that space so thay you will not forever walk by it and only remember the pain of your loss. Nothing is better than a new outlook. Bring new life where there is darkness.
    Thank you for being you, and entrusting your family in my care. Your generous heart and loving kindness has forever left a lasting imprint on my heart. You are truly a blessing to everyone you come in contact with. I am so very happy that i had the pleasure of meeting you and your family. I have truly been blessed……..just to have known you! YOU ARE THE BLESSING!
    Ms Jackson

  16. reply
    Lori "Tina" Freeman Scott says

    My heart is filled with sorrow for the loss of my brother, for he is no more with us, may his soul have peace and rest. I like to extend gratitude for the remarkable care, special touch and the love Kim and Donnie so effectively expressed through their actions. Bernard was also surrounded with love by numerous family and friends that provided much support…thank you Tee, Diamond, Marvin, Karen, Debra, Tina, Corlyse and Mary.

  17. reply
    Lori "Tina" Freeman Scott says

    Andrea ~ may God comfort you in this time of sorrow. We can not turn back the hands of time; so we look ahead and only look back to reflect on Bernard’s beautiful memories…may they be a blessing to you and the family (Dawn, Bernie and Kyle). Stay strong and Take Care.

  18. reply
    Sylvia Anderson says

    Hey Kim,

    So sorry to hear about your loss. I know you we’re an amazing person he had by his side through his entire journey. I will be thinking and praying for you and your family during this time.

    Here if you need absolutely anything at all! ❤️

  19. reply
    Antonia Whitfield says

    Kim,
    Please accept my deepest sympathies for the loss of your uncle. If you need ANYTHING please remember I’m right down the street. I’m here for you

  20. reply
    Kia Sesay says

    Kim, I am so sorry to hear about your uncle. I am praying for your strength. If you need anything let me know.

  21. reply
    Bonnie Hodge says

    Kim, So very sorry to hear about your uncles passing. No more suffering on earth, he is resting in perfect peace with God. You took such good care of him. You were his Angel on earth. Please know that I am praying for you and your family, I know it’s a difficult time, may your memories help sustain you. I am here for you if you need me for anything. Please don’t hesitate to call or text. Praying for your strength. Take good care. Stay safe
    Bonnie

  22. reply
    Ray Edwards jr. says

    Love ya uncle B rest well beloved

  23. reply
    Marion Robinson says

    Andrea, Dawn, Bernie & Kyle: I just wanted to let you know you are loved by all of us and Bernard was often in our prayers. My fondest memories of Bernard was how happy and proud he was at the birth of each of his children! He was one of the first “young” Dads I got to observe up close and was impressed by his joy and care of all of you. He set the stage for what I looked for in my husband. I also remember him being a part of our family cookouts and meals and his beautiful smile! Your comfort will always come from God and the love you’ve shared with him over the years. Love you! “DoBee” (Aunt Doob)

  24. reply
    Veronica Childers-English says

    Kim,
    It was hard for me when I heard the Doctor tell you that Uncle B was gone. My heart was saddened, yet you carried on. You are a fresh breath of JOY, The fruit of God’s sprit in you, is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness., Galatians 5:22 Within your heart, you KNEW that you were always there, for all his needs and his care. He fought a good fight and now he is Free. I know your heart is heavy, so rest at ease, for over the past decade you gave him the best possible care. I hope that you know that I’m here for you and your family whenever, whatever you all may need.

    We will continue to pray for your healing, comfort, strength and peace during this painful time.

    Roy And Veronica

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