HAROLD EDWARDS

Harold Frederick Edwards, 92, passed away at his residence on March 8, 2023.

He was born Sept. 7, 1930, near New Castle, Pa., the son of the late Vivian Franklin Edwards and Mary Mace Edwards.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Jean Whiteside Edwards; brother, Willis F. Edwards; and sisters, Margie E. Plogger and Violet E. Sorrells. He is survived by his daughter, Sharon K. Edwards and many nieces and nephews.

Harold’s family moved to Pennsylvania during the 1920s and returned to Virginia in 1935. He grew up in Rockbridge County and graduated from Effinger High School. Harold was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean War and served two years. In 1954, he married Jean Whiteside of Rockbridge Baths and had a happy 64-year marriage.

Harold believed in hard work, perseverance and possessed the American entrepreneurial spirit. In 1957, he and John Goodbar purchased the original Redwood Restaurant. That successful 11year venture ended due to the construction of Interstate 64. Later they owned the H and J Cafeteria and Edwards and Goodbar Furniture. In 1974 he opened The Lexington Restaurant, which he owned and operated for 48 years until his health declined in 2022.

Throughout his life Harold loved music and sports, especially baseball. For over 30 years he played the guitar with The Bandoleers. He was an avid reader of American and European history. One of his favorite books was “The Last Lion” about Winston Churchill. Lastly, he loved spending time with his family and friends. In his younger years he looked forward to bird hunting and fishing with his two best friends, Johnny Goodbar and Ralph Moore.

Harold’s family would like to thank Rockbridge Area Hospice for their compassionate care during his illness. Also, a special thank you to caregiver Carol Hostetter, and his family and friends for their support.

A graveside service was conducted Saturday, March 11, by the Rev. Benjamin Dowling III at Rockbridge Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Rockbridge Area Hospice, 315 Myers St., Lexington, VA 24450 or the Lexington Fire Department, 708 S. Main St., Lexington, VA 24450.

Arrangements were by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory. N-G