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Leslie Edwards Jr.

1924 - 2019

Leslie Edwards Jr. obituary, 1924-2019, Cincinnati, OH

BORN

1924

DIED

2019

FUNERAL HOME

JC Battle and Sons Funeral Home

543 Rockdale Avenue

Cincinnati, Ohio

Leslie Edwards Obituary

Edwards, Jr. Leslie, loving father of Diana Henry (Joseph), Imogene Bowers (Leroy, Jr.) Luqman Abdu Rahman (Khadijah) and Jacqueline Parrott. Notably, he was the oldest living Tuskegee Airman in the Greater Cincinnati area. Passed Monday, September 23, 2019 Age 95 years. Funeral Service on Friday, October 4, 2019 at 11:00 AM at First Unitarian Church, 536 Linton St. visitation from 9:30am until 11am at First Unitarian Church . Wake Thursday, October 3, 2019 from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at J.C. Battle & Sons Funeral Home. Burial at Vine Street Hill Cemetery, Cincinnati, Oh.with Full Military Honors. Donations can be made for the youth aviation scholarship foundation to gcctai.acnibo.com. Special online condolences for family and friends may be expressed at http://www.jcbattleandsonsfuneralhome.com

Published by The Cincinnati Enquirer on Sep. 29, 2019.
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Memories and Condolences
for Leslie Edwards

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Mr. Edwards has always been someone I looked up to. I was very proud of him, especially when I learned of his military background. In later years I was equally proud oh him when I ran into him working out at the YMCA. May he rest in peace and his legacy live on. Proud Lincoln Heights Resident & Admirer.

Esther Brown Toran

Acquaintance

November 7, 2019

Mr. Edwards evidently had to be a very extraordinary gentleman. He had a lot to pass on to others and did. He probably had many interesting stories. I offer the family my condolences. May God comfort you at this time.

Steele

October 9, 2019

Praying God's comfort on Mr Edwards family. A great man who gave so much to his country. He served his country well for freedom despite those freedoms being denied to his as a Black man during segregation. I will always remember his kind words, his smooth dance moves and his passion for life! God Bless!
Deborah C. Jordan, Cincinnati, Ohio
Alabama Connection

Deborah Jordan

Friend

October 9, 2019

Alishia

October 4, 2019

Gloria Steagall

October 4, 2019

You were so important in this life, a true hero. Thank you for your service.

Karen Moreno

October 4, 2019

I know God walked that last mile with you, just like I know he was with you all of your life. I didn't get to see you much when we lived in the Valley Homes, because you were always working. But I was always glad that we became neighbors, and that Imogene and I became friends. It will remain a special memory that you and I reconnected after so many years. You were a wonderful man.

Evelyn Perkins

October 3, 2019

THANK YOU...my brave airman one will forever be in our history books..BLESSINGS

Valenda Newell

October 3, 2019

What a joy Mr. Leslie was! So young at heart! Pleasure to have known such a great gentleman, who gave so much to the world! What a tremendous legacy he has left for all to remember. So extremely proud of him!!

Dr. Sandra Dees
Cincinnati State

Sandra F Dees Dees

October 3, 2019

Mr. Edwards had an amazing gift of somehow knowing when I was discouraged and pulling me aside for a talk. He always seemed to know what I needed hear, sharing stories from his rich life. He seemed to really understand the challenges of raising boys to be men of value without a father to help guide them, and my concerns about the world we are leaving our children. His kind insights made a real difference in my life. To his family, thank you for sharing him with me and the many others in the community who he has helped.

Debbie Allen

October 3, 2019

I had the honor of meeting Mr. Edwards several times at various Veteran's Day events. He was a delight to talk with and will be greatly missed. He served his country well during his time in the military and all the years after bringing awareness of the Tuskegee Airmen. He truly lived a life of service and honor

Dee Daniels

Friend

October 3, 2019

Antonio Russell

October 2, 2019

To the family of my friend 'Les"; we shared many good conversations about the Tuskegee Airmen; as my uncle was an original airman, and one of the airmen who had built the airfield. Our Underground Underground Railroad talks and trips will always be memorable. Thank you for ALL that we learned together and shared! I will miss the calls and the work we did. Peace and blessings. God bless the family.
Joyce Coleman

October 2, 2019

Robert Tomlinson

October 2, 2019

Thank you Sir for your service to our country and for standing tall when others could not.You will always be remembered.

Lora Brown

October 1, 2019

RIP Mr. Edwards. Your smile will never be forgotten. You fought many battles. You will always be a HERO in my heart.

Taffy Jackson

Friend

September 30, 2019

RIP mr Edwards, and thank you for your service

ed butler

September 30, 2019

Thank you for your service. Because of you and many more like you, we live in the greatest country on earth.

Joe & Millie FISHER

September 30, 2019

Barbara Haack

September 30, 2019

I had the privilege of meeting all of the Tuskegee Airmen when I volunteered at a preschool career day. May the Edwards Family be supported with love and comfort forever from the God of Tender Mercies above as you cope with the dear loss in your lives.

BRY

September 30, 2019

Thank you Sir so much for your services. Rest well.

Carl Hunt

September 30, 2019

Thank you Hero! Rest easy. You've certainly earned it.

Chris Creech

September 30, 2019

Thank you for your service.

Linda Fay

September 30, 2019

May you RIP sir. Thank you.

Ben Coleman

September 30, 2019

Our deepest condolences to the family. We pray that God continues to strengthen and comfort you all during this difficult period.

September 30, 2019

Thank your your service to our country.
Sympathy & prayer's to the family.

One of the greatest generation that kept us FREE.

Gods speed in heaven.

M. Kosh
Ft. Myers, Fl.

m Kosh

September 30, 2019

Jan Walls

September 29, 2019

With a thankful heart for his service. Prayers for his family

Wanda Kelly Wallace

September 29, 2019

PHIL PURTEE

September 29, 2019

Mr.Leslie Edwards
Thank you for your services to Our country that helped America be where it is today, FREE! We applaud you and every service member at a time when it wasn't easy but came together to fight against evils that almost took the freedom of every American !
You stood with a special group of men and women that fought for freedom, liberty for all of us!
We appreciate your sacrifice and honor you during this sad time of your loss but thank you and may we meet in Gods time after resurrection... Our condolences to your family

Stacy

September 29, 2019

Mr.Edwards, you got your Wings now,Fly and be Free.

Thelma Bell

September 29, 2019

27 SEPTEMBER 2019

RIP SSGT EDWARDS. THANKS YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE. I AM SO GLAD I GOT TO MEET YOU. MANY BLESSINGS TO YOUR FAMILY. FROM ANOTHER VET.

JUDY KETTNER

September 29, 2019

May you body be at ease and your soul be at rest, beyond the river, God bless

Artis Ac Hudson Sr.

September 29, 2019

Bless u Sir and for yours Service .RIP .
Sue Willard
Gr.Mich.

September 28, 2019

Rest in Peace

Scott Chamberland

September 28, 2019

God Bless you Sir and God's Speed. Thank you for your tremendous service to our country. May the "RED TAILS" fly on! Sincerely, Maj Williams

Maj Williams

September 28, 2019

Please accept my heartfelt condolences for your loss. May your treasured memories of Leslie always fill your heart with love and peace.

DC

September 28, 2019

God bless you sir thank you for your service. May you be blessed and rest in peace.

September 28, 2019

A true hero and example of perseverance, on of the last of the greatest generation. Thank you for your service and God bless you.

Wanda Conrad

September 28, 2019

Rest in Peace sir...

Millicent Craig

September 28, 2019

I did not know Mr. Edwards Personally, However, I did know of his and his Companies feats, It was men Like him that kept this country free.
Sir: I stand and Salute you for your sacrifices to and for this country. May you Rest in Peace. and may all that served with you, be honored for eternity.

Douglas Brazell

September 28, 2019

Well done Sir. RIP

Annette

September 28, 2019

Thank you for your service to our Sir

John Wood

September 28, 2019

Thank you sir for your service. An example for all of a life well lived. Grace and mercy to your family, friends and others who will miss you.

Robin Busby

September 27, 2019

Thank you sir for your brave service to our nation. Take your rest . You have greatly earned it.

Hope

September 27, 2019

Condolences to the Edwards Family. Today the Flags in the hearts of every United States Airman fly at Half Staff. Rest In Peace Sir.

Michael J. Brown

September 27, 2019

Extending sincere condolences to Mr. Edwards family and friends. His experience, along with the other Tuskegee Airmen is truly encouraging to many. They faced and endured much opposition, we appreciate their efforts and are proud of their accomplishments. May the treasured memories be a source of comfort for his family.

September 27, 2019

God bless you, sir...Thank you for your service ~ Rest in peace.

Jane Dowling

September 27, 2019

My heart goes out to the family during this time of grief very SORRY for your great loss.

September 27, 2019

The men in the famed Tuskegee Airmen were a special cut of men...I salute you and your fellow airmen for your brave service to our country !!! Condolences to your family and may you rest in peace with God by your side !

Leon Overcash

September 27, 2019

I met and have seen Mr. Edwards a few times in passing and how I wish I took the time to get to know him more. I have known her daughter, Imogene Bowyers for over a year and consider myself blessed in hearing bits and pieces of stories about him. I am happy to hear how Mr. Edwards celebration for life went really well and brought the family together to celebrate his accomplishments and relived the memories that were dear to him. God is great. My deepest sympathy to the family. I am sure he will be missed.

P.S. Mr. Edwards inspired a group of us to visit Ben's Chili in Washington D.C. this past Spring. All eight of us had a blast and I thank Mr. Edwards for that ;-)

Bronwyn Detalla

Family Friend

September 27, 2019

I offer my sincere condolences to your family. What a beautiful legacy Mr Edwards has left for his family and a beautiful example of courage for those of us who have only heard about him. May those memories give you comfort.

Chris

September 27, 2019

It's impossible to fully thank these brave men for serving their great country. They just don't make 'em like that any more.

September 27, 2019

Thank you for your service Sir. May you rest in eternal peace.

Sharon Wolkiewicz

September 27, 2019

Sir, Officer Edwards I do not know how to thank you for your military service. Gen. MacArthur said "Old soldiers never die . they just fade away" Office Edward May the soft rain drops make easier in your last walking trail. May God rest your soul in peace.

Jose Alvarez (Korean War Veteran)

September 27, 2019

Rest in peace.

Shelley Taylor

September 27, 2019

Joan Walton

September 27, 2019

My sincere condolences to the Edwards Family. May the God of all comfort provide you all the strength to cope with your loss

September 27, 2019

Thank you for service to our country. God bless you sir, you are a great American.

September 27, 2019

mr Edwards you are truly an American hero thank you for your service to our country rip

ben nerney

September 27, 2019

As a Vietnam pilot, I know what those Tuskegee airman thought about those who gave them safe aircraft to fly.
May our LORD shower his love and grace on his family.

September 27, 2019

rip mr Edwards you are truly an American hero

ben nerney

September 27, 2019

Thank you for your service sir, May you rip a life well lived

Charles Williams

September 27, 2019

Condolences to Mr Edwards family. What a brave man who served our country well! Rest in peace for a job well done.

Yvonne

September 27, 2019

Thank you for your service. It is truly an honor to serve this country of ours following in the foot steps of great airmen that have paved the way for us. Thank you for your patriotism.

Brian Dusablon

September 27, 2019

Condolences to the family of Mr. Edwards. A legacy of courage. Sorry to hear of your loss.

September 27, 2019

My sincere condolences to the family. May memories comfort you and prayers strengthen you during this time.

September 27, 2019

Thank you Mr. Edwards for your service to our Country. You made America safe for your fellow Americans. Your love of our country is greatly appreciated. May God bless your family.

connie colvin

September 27, 2019

My condolences to the Edwards family, the contribution made will never be forgotten, truly a loss for so many.

September 27, 2019

Thank you for your service to our country. Bill Moore (X-USMC)

Bill Moore

Friend

September 27, 2019

Thank you for your Service, "May You Rest in Peace, AMEN" !

Donald Iafrate

September 27, 2019

Les...our world is full of imitation heroes, people who garner attention, look for accolades, and expect privileges. You were part of the Greatest Generation, where humility, adherence to family values, loyal service to your country and valor defined greatness. It saddens my heart every time a true hero like yourself joins our Father in Heaven and leaves a gaping hole which the rest of us cannot fill. Rest In Peace Leslie Edwards. You are one more example of why the Tuskegee Airmen can stand tall and proud. May your family find peace and comfort in this difficult time.

Bill McKenna

Friend

September 27, 2019

R.I.P.

FTMY, FL.

September 27, 2019

Men like Mr. Edwards were a special breed of men. Our country owes them our very freedom. Thank you sir and God bless.

September 27, 2019

pauline jackson

September 27, 2019

R.I.H. Job well done thou good and faithful servant.... thanks for your years of service to our country..you are indeed a hero to our nation...may your family find peace and comfort in lasting memories

Gloria Laulusa

September 27, 2019

We are saddened for the loss of your dearly beloved Father. May the God of tender mercies be with you all. Please know that our loving Heavenly Father feels your pain and is eager to give you all an abundance of love, peace and comfort always.

JM, Jackson Mississippi

September 26, 2019

Mr. Edwards,

The accounts of heroism from the Tuskegee Airman will be told and appreciated in perpetuity. Thank you for your service, and other noble contributions, to our country.

Rest In Peace, Sir.

September 26, 2019

Thank you for your service and may God bless you

September 26, 2019

Cynthia Herd

September 26, 2019

Rest Leslie, until you hear at dawn,
the low, clear reveille of God.

Thank you for your service to this nation.

Harry Simpson

September 26, 2019

Thank you sir, for your utmost of service to this country.

September 26, 2019

Much respect to Mr. Edwards for the history making work he s done our culture and for the world. May the God of all comfort be with his family.

September 26, 2019

I am sadden by the passing of my friend Mr. Edwards but I am also honored that I was able to share both the university that I formerly worked at and my hometown of Fort Wayne, Indiana with his wealth of experience when we drove their several years ago. His life enriched my community and his spirit will always be remembered! God truly received an honorable and humble servant!

Kevin Corey

Friend

September 26, 2019

Mr. Edwards, we honor you for your service. My deepest sympathies to your family and friends.

Bambi McKibbon-Turner

September 26, 2019

R.I.P. Mr. Edwards, You served our country well. God Bless You and your family.

Beverly Perko

September 26, 2019

May God and your treasured memories give you comfort during this most sad and difficult time.

September 26, 2019

Thank you for your service Sir.

Ron Howard

September 26, 2019

May you rest in peace!

Thank you for Service.

Corine Taylor

September 26, 2019

Thank you Sir for your service to our country and to us, her citizens. May you rest in eternal peace.

Cabot & Libby Barden

September 26, 2019

Mr. Edwards - your service was so valuable to the war effort. Thank you for your service and may you rest in peace.

Pat Wilson

September 26, 2019

Ann Stokman

September 26, 2019

Mr Edward's spoke at my father's home going 2014 Tuskegee Airmen Nicholas Neblett..impressive spokesman!!

Nicholas Neblett jr

Acquaintance

September 26, 2019

Debra Pendleton

September 25, 2019

You have touched so many hearts and been an inspiration in people lives. The times me and your great grandchildren Billy and Bri'Ana spent with you will always be with us Mr. Leslie you are truly and deeply missed ❤

Angie Darby

Family

September 25, 2019

Les Edwards was a warrior, a champion for civil rights and a teacher of love and wisdom. I am honored to have known Les. He made this world a better place for all of us.

Richard Thornton

Friend

September 25, 2019

Mr. Edwards was a dear man and fellow member of The Gathering at Northern Hills. His smile, humor and wisdom will be deeply missed. My husband Bob and I extend sincere condolences to the Edwards family.

LINDA GUTOWSKI

Friend

September 25, 2019

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Memorial Events
for Leslie Edwards

Oct

3

Wake

4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

JC Battle and Sons Funeral Home

543 Rockdale Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229

Oct

4

Visitation

9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

First Unitarian Church

536 Linton St., OH

Oct

4

Funeral service

11:00 a.m.

First Unitarian Church

536 Linton St, OH

Funeral services provided by:

JC Battle and Sons Funeral Home

543 Rockdale Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229

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