Joseph Michael Edwards, 77, of Smithton, IL, born February 15, 1947, in East St. Louis, IL, died Monday, November 4, 2024, at his residence surrounded by his family.
Joseph was a United States Army veteran. He worked at Alton & Southern Railway before retiring after more than 35 years of service. Joseph was a member of the Smithton VFW, Shiloh Eagles, Smart TD Alumni Association, and Ducks Unlimited. He was also a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Smithton, IL. Joseph enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing, and horse races, but most of all, being with his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph R. and Georgia M., nee Burch, Edwards; his twin brother, Jerry Edwards; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Walter and Helen Grywatch; and two sisters-in-law, Carol Feigl and Donna Edwards.
Joseph is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Rose M. Edwards, nee Grywatch, whom he married on March 13, 1967; two sons, Michael Edwards and Sean (Michelle) Edwards; five grandchildren, Skyler, Hayley, Jacob, Hannah, and Joshua; a brother, Richard (Amy) Edwards; two brothers-in-law, Walter (Carol) Grywatch and Vince Feigl; and many dear nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff of Family Hospice for their loving support during this stressful time. They would also like to thank his racetrack buddies for all of their help.
Memorials may be made to Family Hospice or the Poor Clare Monastery of Our Lady of Mercy, Belleville, IL. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: Memorial services will be held at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, with Rev. Chuck Cange officiating.
Burial with military honors will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO.
