Jeanne L. Edwards

EDWARDS, Jeanne L.
Westport Island, Maine
Age 81, passed away peacefully Friday, October 19, at sunrise, the time of day she most favored. She was predeceased in 1996 by her husband, Jeremiah and is survived by three children (and spouses), Pamela Shockley (George), Jerry Edwards II (Bertie) and Bruce Edwards (Deborah); four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She was also predeceased by her sisters, Phyllis Kellogg and Pat McLaughlin and is survived by brother, John Williams (Mary) and sisters, Norma Edwards (Harry) and Nancy Comfort (Larry). Born in Elmira, NY, in 1925 to Gordon and Crystal Williams, she married into the Navy life at the end of WWII. Throughout the years she moved with her family to South Carolina, Virginia, Japan, Hawaii, California, Scotland, UK, Connecticut, Florida and Maine. Her accomplished career as a photo/journalist began in 1945 with the Elmira Star-Gazette, the Norwich Bulletin in Connecticut, and ultimately Florida Today, as well as several small publications. She was an artist of note and an avid gardener. With her husband, Jeremiah, she started the Bonsai Society of Brevard and was also a member of the National Hibiscus Society. Jeanne lived with a vibrant, friendly energy and was always volunteering to help those less fortunate. Her efforts were recognized by many, including the Japanese government for her work with orphanages. In Scotland she was the only American with the WVS (Women's Volunteer Service). She was a Gray Lady Volunteer Nurse and ambulance aide in Connecticut and worked with the children at the Devereux Developmental Disabilities Group Homes in Florida. Wherever she lived she volunteered with the Red Cross. A constant source of energy and creativity, her limitless contributions of time, effort, love and compassion have touched and made better the lives of very many around the world. She was a member of the Methodist church. Her favorite charities included the American Heart Association; Kofu Orphanage, Yokohama, Japan; and Devereux Developmental Disabilities in Melbourne, Florida. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to any charitable organization you favor. She would love that. Services will be held 11 a.m., Friday, November 2, at Woodlawn National Cemetery in Elmira, N.Y. Her sparkling smile will never be lost, her way on earth will always be our guide. Arrangements are under the care of Kincer Funeral Home, 130 Pleasant St., Richmond, ME 04357. (207)737-4395