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Gerald Edwards
09/17/1942 - 07/27/2025
BORN
09/17/1942
DIED
07/27/2025
Gerald Edwards Obituary
Born September 17, 1942, on a rural farm in Virginia, to Tommie George Edwards and Ruth June Inge, Gerald pursued a lifelong passion for science and education. He completed his PhD at the University of California, Riverside and there met Sandra Gee, whom he married in 1969. From 1981-2013 he built an internationally recognized research program at Washington State University in Pullman WA. His distinguished career earned him numerous honors, including Guggenheim and Fulbright Fellowships.
In 2012, Gerry and Sandy moved to where they became active in Westside United Methodist Church through the finance committee and building maintenance. Gerry was a regular face at 24 hour fitness where he made many friends.
He is remembered for his humility, kindness, and deep respect for others.
Gerry is survived by his sister Junetta; son Chris (Sarah Petke); daughter Sara Edwards; grandchildren Riley (23), Paz (21), Jack (6), and Eva (4).
A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 2nd at 1 p.m. at Westside United Methodist Church, 13420 SW Butner Rd., Beaverton, OR 97005.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Gerald E. Edwards School of Biological Sciences Excellence Endowment at Washington State University by contacting Justin Smith at [email protected].
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gerald Edwards
Sponsored by The Family.
4 Entries
MARY RUMPHO-KENNEDY
Yesterday
Dear Chris and Sara and families,
I was so sorry to hear of Gerry's passing. He served as a post-doc mentor for me at WSU from 1982-1985. I always considered Gerry my friend and so enjoyed our Christmas letter exchanges with your mom and then Gerry, after your mom's passing. Gerry was a great friend and mentor. I remember him as being so calm and so bright and dedicated to his family and research. He truly did change the face of photosynthesis research and what we understand today. I am so sorry for your loss and science's loss. May your memories of both your parents make you smile as you go forward. They were great people. I will make a donation to WSU in Gerry's name.
Steve and Joan Huber
July 31, 2025
We will always gratefully carry Gerry in our memories as a respected graduate advisor (Steve) and deeply appreciated colleague and friend to us both.
Dr. Ray Collier & Nathalie Walter
July 31, 2025
I am forever grateful that Gerry served on my PhD committee. My life (and I think that of almost every student with whom he worked) was positively impacted by his advice and friendship. Outside of the traditional academic sphere, Nathalie and I fortunately were able to enjoy time with Gerry and Sandy, picking fruit at the Snake River for their explorations in wine, and enjoying good food and company. I know that I may never again meet as nice a person as Gerry, and his example is something I try to emulate. Gerry was definitely a very, very good person, and it hurts badly to hear of his passing. Peace be with you all.
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