Ray Edwards

Ray Edwards, age 86, Unicoi, joined his heavenly family on January 5, 2022. Ray passed away peacefully with his wife of sixty-two years, Valerie Edwards by his side. He was a native of Beelog, North Carolina and the youngest of thirteen children born to the late Marcelus and Tinie Hensley Edwards.

Ray graduated from Grundy High School in 1955, where he lived out his love for playing football. He was a proud United States Air Force Veteran, having served his country honorably for six years. Ray was awarded a Good Conduct Medal. While he was stationed in England, he met the love of his life, Valerie Guyton, of Norwich, England. After his time in the USAF, he was an active member of the Fairfax, Virginia community. Ray retired from the United States Postal Service where he worked as a Letter Carrier, and he also retired as a Cue Bus Driver for the city of Fairfax.

Ray was a devoted Christian and a member of Marbleton Freewill Baptist Church. He loved to spend time with his grandchildren, take care of his lawn and gardens, and watch Alabama Football. Ray lived an exemplary life, touching those around him with his dedication to his family, to his community, and to his Lord.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by twelve siblings.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his wife of sixty-two years, Valerie Guyton Edwards; Ray was a loving father to: Dwayne Edwards, Charlene Edwards-Ramos, John Ramos, and Natalie Burnett; cherished grandfather to: Ashley Edwards, Tyler Edwards, Rosemary Edwards, Briana Rosenbaum, Adam Rosenbaum, Hunter Burnett, Hayley Dehart, Andrew Ramos, Justin Ramos and Casey Ramos; he was a caring uncle, cousin, and friend to all that knew him.

The family will have a memorial service at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to a charity of choice in memory of Ray Edwards.

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Edwards family at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com 

Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin, is privileged to serve the Edwards family. (423) 743-1380.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ray Edwards, please visit our floral store.