James Edwards Obituary

HENDERSON- James Arthur Edwards, age 88, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2025, at the family home surrounded by his family. He was born in rural Warren County to the late Boyd Clark Edwards, Sr. and Elizabeth Hicks Edwards. He graduated from Norlina High School where he excelled in athletics, including baseball, football and basketball. After a short stint in modeling, he married the love of his life, Beulah Jones and moved to Henderson, where he worked for many years with the former Lauren's Glass Company, before retiring with the NC Department of Transportation. James was a founding member of Victory Baptist Church where he served in many roles, including deacon and Sunday School teacher. He also served on the Board of Trustees for Victory Christian School and was instrumental in its foundation. James was generous with his time, resources and talents. He regularly volunteered to support the church and those in need. James led by example and positively touched the lives of many. He loved his family dearly and especially enjoyed family gatherings and holiday celebrations. Values such as respect, kindness, honor and loyalty were a way of life. During his later years, the progression of his illness limited his physical abilities, but James never lost his grace, good humor and generosity of character. The family will receive relatives and friends at JM White Funeral Home Saturday, August 2, 2025 beginning at 11:00 a.m.; and at other times at the home. To honor his wishes a funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. at JM White Funeral Home Chapel, to be officiated by Pastor Ricky Easter. A private burial will follow at Cokesbury United Methodist Church Cemetery. Surviving James are his wife, Beulah Jones Edwards, daughter Debby B. Edwards, son, Johnny Edwards (Kim), and son Brian Edwards (Christy); his sister, Ann Edwards Moseley (Earl). He also is survived by seven grandchildren, Amber Francis (Anthony), Jasmine Edwards, Tiffany Edwards (Chrystal), Dylan Edwards (Jennifer), Hannah Edwards (Wyatt), Joshua Edwards (Jessica) and David Williamson; four great-grandchildren Kenley Edwards, Macie Grace Edwards, Arya Francis, and Miley Francis and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, James is predeceased by his siblings, Boyd Clark Edwards, Jr., Louise Edwards Paschall, Betty Jean Edwards Severance, Allan Francis Edwards, Bobby Edwards and Barbara Edwards. Serving as active pallbearers will be Ricky Pendergrass, Mike Adcock, Wayne Wattenbarger, Dale Matthews, Curtis Pendergrass, Chris Brooks, Caleb Parnell and Timothy Finch. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Butch Edwards and Johnny Dickerson. The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to Amedisys Hospice Care of Franklinton for their compassionate care and support. They also extend their appreciation to the Cokesbury Fire Department and church family at Victory Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his honor to them or the charity of your choice.