William Harrison Edwards, Sr.

William was known to his friends and family as “Harry”, “Willie Ed”, and “E-Money.” Harry was born September 15, 1945, in Saint Louis, Missouri, to Moses and Pearl Ivy Edwards. He was the third son of six children, five boys and one girl. Both parents; two brothers, Richard and Vincent; and Harry’s only beloved son, William “Boo” Edwards, Jr., preceded him in death.

Harry attended the St. Louis public schools, graduating from Vashon High School in 1964, where he was known as the ‘Drummer’. He immediately joined the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a medic. Harry later served 12 years and seven months in the Missouri Air National Guard as a reservist in the Aerospace Medical Services Division (131 MDS). He received many awards and honors during his service tenure such as the Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Humanitarian Service Award, and the Meritorious Unit Award to name a few. Harry retired from the military as a TSGT (Technical Sargent) in 2006.

Harry was employed with the U.S. Postal Service as a mail carrier for more than 40 years. While there, he also served as a shop steward. He was dedicated to his job and his fellow employees. Other achievements included his service as an emergency medical service driver with Abbott Ambulance Services. While the Post Office and Air National Guard were his vocation and avocation, music was his passion. Harry loved all kinds of music, but Motown sounds were his favorites. Even in his last days, he was playing instruments (arms waving in the air, fingers playing the piano or the horn, and fist pumping as he drummed), and his almost silent lips singing along with the music playing.

William Harrison Edwards Sr. leaves to mourn his passing: two daughters, Melody McAllister and Lazundra Edwards of St. Louis, MO; one stepdaughter, Aneca (Missy) Luss of St. Louis, MO; one daughter-in-law, Vera (the late William) Edwards of Belleville, IL; two brothers, Charles Ivy of Dover, DE and Clarence (Gail) Edwards of St. Louis, MO; one sister, Josephine (Joe) Pastchal of St. Louis, MO; two sisters-inlaw, Jacquelyn (Jacque) Edwards and Judy Edwards of St. Louis, MO; 17 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Harry was blessed to have many, many friends and caregivers who loved him dearly and will miss him forever.

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