Willie (Eddie) Lee Edwards, Jr. peacefully passed away on February 28, 2025, at Sentara Norfolk Heart Hospital, surrounded by his devoted wife, Dr. Ethel M. Edwards, and his beloved family. A man of deep faith, Willie lived a life filled with love and service, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the hearts of all who knew him.
Born on September 17, 1952, in Wilson, North Carolina, to Nancy Sue and Willie Edwards, Sr., Willie was raised with strong values of faith, family, and dedication. After graduating from Frederick Douglass High School in Baltimore, MD, he began a distinguished 21-year career in the U.S. Navy, serving with honor in Vietnam and Operation Desert Storm. His esteemed military service earned him numerous honors, and he retired in 1993 with distinction.
One of Willie’s greatest joys was his marriage to his cherished and adored wife, Dr. Ethel M. Edwards. Their union was one of deep love, built on mutual respect and unwavering devotion. Together, they shared a commitment to guiding others, demonstrated by their involvement in the Foundation of Marriage Ministry at Gethsemane Community Fellowship Baptist Church.
Beyond his role as a husband, Willie was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, treasuring every moment with his family. He always offered a warm smile and a quick joke with his large circle of friends. A true people person, he formed deep, lasting friendships that enriched his life and the lives of those around him. He enjoyed an assortment of hobbies, including his strong passion for puzzles, reading the Bible and praying with his family daily, and exercising at the gym with his friends. He was also deeply committed to his community, serving in the Usher Ministry at Gethsemane and as a member of The New Chesapeake Men for Progress Education Foundation, Inc., where he advocated for education and mentorship.
Willie was preceded in death by his father; his children Dawnta’ Edwards, Tamekia Edwards, and Antuan Edwards; and his siblings Jonathan Ward and Eric Edwards.
Willie is survived by his loving wife, Dr. Ethel M. Edwards, and children: Curtis Edwards, Mia Holmes, Shannon Vassell (Marcus), Michael Holmes, Jr. (Amanda), and Shaundra Branova (Ivan). He also leaves his grandchildren: Deante Edwards, Troy Edwards, Odis Mack IV, Rashawnda Edwards, Paton Hariston, Kendria Robertson-Edwards, Roy Norfleet III, Emmanuel Vassell, and Benjamin Vassell; his great-grandchildren: Ahmir Edwards, Ezekiel Thornton-Edwards, and Jamerah Edwards; his dear mother, Nancy Sue Edwards; his siblings: Elder Elaine Cottman (Leo), Minnie Armstrong (Tyrone), Michael Edwards, Sr., Glenn Edwards, Sr. (Ida), Minister Jacqueline Lievers (Bryant), and Lisa Yarbrough (Steven); along with a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends, including Cheryl Daniels, Jean-Eddy Pierre-Louis, and Andra Smith.
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Mona Cottman says
March 5, 2025 at 2:20 pmSending my deepest condolences and prayers to Aunt Ethel& LuLu and my Edwards family. I’m still loss for words that my Uncle PC is no longer with us. His presence will be deeply missed. I’m sad but Rejoicing knowing that you are resting in Heaven with Jesus.Love You Forever Mona Bagonia .Lol
Anthony says
March 5, 2025 at 4:17 pmI send my Condolences to my Family that we lost a Very Good Man. But GOD gain Another Awsome Angle. I ask GOD to Wrap His Arms around His Cuzzo PC Wife & Family. Much Love.
Mr. & Mrs. Cuz Anthony & DeShawn White
Melvin and Ann Fluellen and Crew says
March 5, 2025 at 10:03 pmOur Dear Cousin Ethel, and the Family of Willie “Eddie” Edwards! We extend our sincerest condolences at the loss of your husband, Cousin Eddie! May God wrap His long arms of comfort around you and the entire Edwards Family! As you shed Tears of Sorrow, allow some of them to be Tears of Joy! Let’s rejoice with Eddie and Shout the Victors Cry, “O Death, where is your sting, O Grave, where is your victory” (1 Cor. 15:55)! We love you all very much! Melvin, Ann, and Crew! <
Mary J Parry says
March 6, 2025 at 1:49 pmMy Dear Ethel and family,
I am sending condolences from Jeff and I. We are so very glad that we were able to make lasting memories with Eddie.
We are sending prayers of strength to you and your family and I know God has sent his army of Angels to wrap you all in peace and strength.
With love always
Mary J Parry says
March 6, 2025 at 1:50 pmMy Dear Ethel and family,
I am sending condolences from Jeff and I. We are so very glad that we were able to make lasting memories with Eddie.
We are sending prayers of strength to you and your family I know God has sent his army of Angels to wrap you all in peace and strength.
With love always