James F. Edwards, 78, of Groton died Saturday, November 29, 2014 at the Lawrence and Memorial Hospital surrounded by his family after courageously battling cancer for more than three years.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Carolyn (Burdick) Edwards.
He was born August 16, 1936 in Mystic, CT, the son of the late Robert and Frieda (Feld) Edwards. He attended the Mystic Academy and was a member of the Class of 1954 at Fitch Senior High School.
After being part of the National Guard, he then joined the Army for two years. His working career started as a lineworker and progressed to a Safety and Tree trimming coordinator for the Groton Utilities where he spent 37 years. His greatest accomplishment was founding and becoming the first President of the Groton Utilities Salaried Employees Association. After retirement, he thoroughly enjoyed driving for the Ledyard Senior Center; greeting all with a smile, a joke or a lending hand. He also could still be found in the stands of local high school sporting events after years of attending his childrens and grandchildrens' events.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his sister, Delores Lallo of Westerly, RI and his four children whom he did everything for; Tammy Welsch and her husband Eric of Voluntown, CT, Karen Longley and her husband Brian of Griswold, CT, Curtis Edwards of Taftville, CT and Linda Lavoie and her husband Jim of Voluntown, CT. He adored his 11 grandchildren and one great grandchild and made a lasting impression on all of them as a selfless and caring man. Many loving nieces and nephews will remember his as well.
He is predeceased by his siblings, Robert Edwards and Eleanor White.
The Family wishes to thank family and friends for all of their love, support and prayers. Also many thanks to Dr. Edward McDermott for his 32 years of care and to Dr. Latanzi, Dr. Hanson, and all the wonderful staff and nurses.
Calling Hours will be held on Wednesday, December 3, from 4 to 7pm at the Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Mystic. Burial will be private for the family.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his name to the Groton Elks Club or the Ledyard Lions Club.
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