Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, at First Baptist Church Coffeeville for the Rev. James Leroy Edwards Sr., 83, of Coffeeville, who died on Saturday, June 15. Burial followed in Broadstreet Cemetery near Coffeeville. The Rev. Craig Baker and the Rev. Truman Scarborough officiated. The family received friends from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Tuesday evening, June 18, and again one hour prior to the service on Wednesday, June 19, at First Baptist Church Coffeeville.
James was born on June 18, 1940, in Coffeeville, the son of the late Leroy and the late Lucile Haynes Edwards. He was a 1958 graduate of Coffeeville High School and a proud member of the 1957 State Championship Basketball team. He furthered his education, earning a bachelor’s degree in education from Mississippi State University where he excelled in basketball. His passion for teaching and coaching led him to several schools before he answered the Lord’s call to the gospel ministry. James then enrolled at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, beginning a lifetime of spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
In 1980, James and his young family returned to Coffeeville where he served as a bi-vocational minister in several churches in the area. His farming endeavors and the operation of Edwards & Sons in Coffeeville, which has provided agricultural services to area farmers for more than 40 years, further demonstrated his commitment to his community. James has performed countless weddings and funerals through the years and held true to his commitment to living for the Lord all his days. “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
In addition to his parents, one sister, Vernell Gray, preceded James in death.
Survivors include, his loving wife, Shirley Gray Edwards, who stood by his side throughout his life’s journey. He is also survived by his two sons, Jim Edwards (Gail) and Timothy Edwards (April), all of Coffeeville, who carry on his legacy. One sister, Vera Shows of Louisville, and his grandson, Andrew Edwards, also mourn his loss.
Pallbearers were Michael Davis, Steve Ellis, Gaylon Gray, David McCluney, Nikoma Myhand, Rex Myhand, Don Sheffield, Mark Shows, Ronnie Tritt and Scott Waldo. Russell Fisk, Jim Gholson, Billy Gordon, Wayne Harris, Chick Miller, Thomas Simmons, Larry Tritt and Wayne Turner served as honorary pallbearers.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be directed to First Baptist Church Coffeeville.
Online condolences can be expressed to the family at www.mckibbenandguinn.com
McKibben and Guinn Funeral Service in Grenada was in charge of arrangements.
