Jackson Lee "Jack" Edwards

With comfort in knowing that he is with our Lord and Savior, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Jackson Lee "Jack" Edwards, who went to his home in Heaven on October 12, 2025, with his family by his side. Born on September 30, 1942, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, Jack had a love for life and a heart that found joy in the simplest pleasures. His humble spirit and dedication to his family, his work, and his faith were exemplary. Jack's supportive nature and unconditional love were his trademarks, leaving a profound impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Jack's journey in life was as vast and varied as his interests. As a young man, he moved to New Bern, North Carolina, to be closer to family, establishing a life filled with love, laughter, and the occasional adventure. He worked as a mechanic in the maintenance department at Maola Milk & Ice Cream Company for 29 years before retiring. His children fondly recall those special days when they accompanied their dad to work, always ensuring they were treated to their fill of ice cream. Away from work, he was an avid outdoorsman, who loved hunting, fishing, flounder gigging, and stock car racing. Jack loved to be around people and never missed an opportunity to bring family and friends together, hosting neighborhood cookouts. His love for family time was evident and cherished, especially making memories on camping trips and vacations to the mountains that his loved ones will hold dear forever.

A faithful member of the Faith Free Will Baptist Church, Jack gave his heart to the Lord on October 8, 2001, fully surrendering his life to Jesus. His devotion was steadfast, often witnessing to others about the love of Christ. As we mourn his loss, we find comfort in the words of Matthew 5:4, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted." Today, we celebrate Jack's life, remembering his love, humility, and dedicated service to his family and faith. Although we will miss him dearly, we rejoice in the knowledge that he is in Heaven, with the Lord.

Jack is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Elsie Smith Edwards; his children, Mary Hacker, Lynne Phillips (Dwayne), Marilyn Welch, Tony Jackson Edwards, Sr. (Zoanne); grandchildren, Johnny Ray Barrow Jr., April Edwards, Jessica Fulcher, Chad Phillips, Brookelyn Welch, and Amanda Edwards; great grandchildren, Julie, Johnny III, Corayah, Masyn, Jaylee, Jaxon, Carter, Holland, Tinslee, and Brayden; and one great great granddaughter, Airia; and his brother, Joseph "Joe" Edwards.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Franklin and Isabella Edwards; sons-in-law, Johnny Ray Barrow, Sr. and Billy Hacker; and grandson, Tony Jackson Edwards, Jr.

We invite family and friends to join us for a visitation on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 2:00 pm, followed by a funeral service at 3:00 pm at the Faith Free Will Baptist Church, 250 Sand Hill Road, New Bern, North Carolina, 28560. He will be laid to rest at Green Pastures Cemetery in the Antioch community.

In these days of remembrance, we encourage you to visit Jack's memorial page. Please share your fond memories, upload photos, and leave comforting words for his family. Your contributions will serve as a beautiful testament to the life and legacy of Jack, a man who touched the lives of many with his humble, loving, and dedicated spirit.

Bennett Funeral & Cremation Care is honored to serve the family and friends of Jackson Lee "Jack" Edwards.