Robert Ray Edwards

Robert “Bob” Ray Edwards, 97, a longtime resident of Terre Haute, IN was welcomed home by his Lord Wednesday July 7, 2021, in Bradenton, Florida. He was a man of great faith and had no fear during this transition.

He was born November 27th, 1923, to Robert and Helen Edwards, who preceded him in death. Bob went on to proudly serve his country during WWII, where he was stationed in Guam with the Army Strategic Air Force. After completing his service, he went on to have a successful career serving the union worker as the administrator of the Laborers & HOD Carriers welfare and pension funds for the entire state of Indiana. He was also a member of the Terre Haute Masonic Lodge 19 and Scottish Rite for 74 years.  Bob also belonged to the Zorah Shrine, American Legion, VFW, and the Bradenton Elks and Moose Lodges.  

When we remember Bob, we remember a man of great character who taught us the important life lessons. However, as wise as he was, he was far from serious. Bob never missed the opportunity to make a joke followed by that big unforgettable, belly laugh.

Bob had many reasons to be proud of the life he lived, but nothing was more important to him than his family. You cannot think of Bob without thinking of his loving, steadfast wife of 71 years, Dolores “Jane” Edwards who survives him. Everyone who knew Bob and Jane aspired to have a love like theirs. They served as a perfect example of marriage to family and friends, never losing their spark.

He was a wonderful father, gentle grandfather, brother, and uncle. He is preceded by the death of his sister, Joann Coakley. He is survived by his son Mark Edwards (wife Stephanie Edwards) and daughter Deborah Switzer (husband David Switzer), granddaughters Danielle Edwards (Husband Justin Rice) and Katelin Edwards, Nephew Jay Coakley (Wife Jackie Coakley) and great niece Megan Cook (Husband Brad Cook and son Jack Cook)

Visitation will be held on Saturday, July 17, 2021, from 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m. at DeBaun Springhill Chapel. Following this, a service will be held at Roselawn Cemetery Chapel from 2:00 p.m. with military and masonic ceremonies. Online condolences may be made to www.debaunfuneralhomes.com.  

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