Jerry Ray Edwards

Jerry Ray Edwards, 90, of Waterloo, IL, passed away peacefully on Monday June 24, 2024, with his loving family by his side. Jerry was born on August 29, 1933, in Newport, IN to James and Mary (Adams) Edwards and they preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his brothers James “Jimmy” and John “Wayne” Edwards, 11 brothers-in-law, 11 sisters-in-law and several nieces and nephews.

Jerry graduated from Georgetown, IL High School and soon became a United States Marine. His service began near the end of the Korean War. He was about to be sent to the front lines when the Korean Armistice Agreement was signed. He continued his service in Japan. While proudly serving his country, Jerry was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, U.N. Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal for his distinguished service. He was honorably discharged in February 1956.

Jerry returned home and entered trade school, studying telecommunications and began his civilian career. He then married his beloved wife, Geneva, nee Barrett on July 5, 1958, and they began their family in Danville, IL. Jerry was a longtime member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Danville, IL. He was also the Exalted Ruler of the Danville, IL Elks Club for 2 terms of service. Jerry was a devoted Chicago Cubs fan and enjoyed playing golf later in his life. He continued his care for veterans as a member of his local Honor Guard serving military honors for area funerals. Jerry loved to relax with a good cigar and a Jim Beam on the rocks. Family was central to his life, and he will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather and dear friend to many. He will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him. 

Left to cherish his memory are his dear wife, Geneva Edwards, his children: Kevin (Debi) Edwards, Daniel (Mathieu) Edwards and Jerry Edwards; his sister-in-law Helen Barrett; his grandchildren; Brandon (Ashley) Edwards and Zachary (Megan Lewis) Edwards and his great-granddaughters: Rhoni, Cameron and Clellie Ann in addition to many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Visitation will be held on Friday June 28, 2024, from 9:00am-9:30am at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 204 W. Mill St., Waterloo, IL 62298. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 9:30am with Fr. Carl Scherrer, presiding and Deacon Tom Helfrich, assisting. Interment with full military honors will take place at 11:00am at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be directed to the Gary Sinise Foundation, www.garysinisefoundation.org or P.O. Box 40726 Nashville, TN 37204 or to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Hoffen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.