He was born in Staunton on Sept. 23, 1932, the youngest son of Lumen E. and Verna L. (Gardner) Edwards. Mr. Edwards was a retired truck driver for Wonder Bread out of Edwardsville for more than 30 years, retiring in 1990. He served in the U.S. Navy and was a past American Legion commander of Edwardsville Post 199 and Collinsville 365. He was an avid golfer and also enjoyed fishing and bowling.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Edward; three brothers, Gilbert, Almont and Don Edwards; his sister, Doris Johnson; and a sister in infancy.

He is survived by his wife, Karen (Kincheloe) Edwards of Pontoon Beach;  two daughters, Karen  Kelly of Benld, and Ronda Vanderweele of Holiday Shores; five sons, Tom Edwards of Quincy, Father Chuck of Highland, Mike Edwards of Staunton, Rob and Jim Edwards of Benld; 17 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren; a brother, Edsel Edwards of Springfield; and many nieces and nephews.

Father Edwards presided at a graveside service with military honors at the Gillespie City Cemetery, in Gillespie on July 8.

Memorials may be offered to Heartland Hospice of Fairview Heights.

Meridith Funeral Home, PC, of Highland, was in charge of arrangements.