William Ray Edwards

William Ray Edwards, Jr., 85, of Hartville, OH passed away on Thursday, November 9, 2023. He was born in Lexington, NC on January 13, 1938, the son of the late Vallie Kennedy and Baptist Minister, Rev. “Jimmy” Edwards. He had two siblings, a younger brother, John Rudolphus, and a sister, Maddie “Lorraine”, both deceased. He attended Pilot School, grades 1-12, having graduated in 1956. He attended Appalachian State College and earned a degree in teaching, over a six-year period; working at a funeral home during those years to earn money for tuition. With the assistance of his friend, Charlie, he met his wife-to-be at the Baptist Student Union: Linda Jane Helms. According to Bill, “It was love at first sight”.

Bill was active with the National Guard and served during the summers and on weekends at Fort Bragg. At one point, he had to be away for six months on active duty. He taught History and Geography at Monroe High School, where he also served as the Assistant Coach for football, baseball, and basketball.

He later acquired a job selling an infection control program to hospitals, which entailed some traveling.

In the basement of their home, Bill had a woodworking business. He built some furniture but specialized in making ornaments and plaques. When the children were grown and on their own, Bill and Linda enjoyed going back to Boone, NC, where they honeymooned. The two were inseparable, doing everything together, including grocery shopping. Soon after Linda retired, she suffered a stroke that paralyzed her left side. For seven years, Bill served as her primary caretaker. “She was never left alone.”

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at Lakeland Memorial Park, 1901 Lancaster Ave., Monroe, NC 28112.

Bill is survived by his daughters; Monica Miller (Chip), Michelle Horne, Mia Caudle (Sammy), and Melinda Miller (Chris); nine grandchildren; Janie Miller, Doug Miller, Beverly Horne, David Horne, Nicholas Horne, Madison Gurley (Nick), Wes Caudle (Kassidy), Will Caudle and Wyatt Caudle; six great-grandchildren, Greyson Carpenter, Sophia Carpenter, Eleanor Gurley, Gibson Gurley, Callahan Gurley and Avangeline Caudle.

Online condolences may be made at www.gordonfuneralservice.com.

Gordon Funeral Service and Crematory, 1904 Lancaster Ave, Monroe, NC 28112 is honored to be entrusted to care for the Edwards Family.