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Dennis Edwards
1943 - 2018
Dennis Edwards
1943 - 2018
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1943
DIED
2018
Dennis Edwards Obituary
His family told CBS News that he died in Chicago, two days before he would have turned 75. According to The Associated Press, his booking agent, Rosiland Riche Roberts, said that Edwards died after a long illness.
Edwards replaced David Ruffin as lead vocalist of The Temptations in 1968. He brought soulful lead vocals to the band's psychedelic, funk, and disco era of the late 1960s and 1970s. The group's song lyrics also shifted during this era to address social issues. Hits during that time included "Cloud Nine," "I Can't Get Next to You," "Ball of Confusion (That's What the World is Today)," and "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone."
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He left the band in 1977, around the time the band changed labels from Motown to Atlantic Records. He returned to The Temptations for several reunion albums and tours during the 1980s.
As a solo artist Edwards scored a hit with "Don't Look Any Further," that reached number two on the R&B charts in 1984.
He was briefly married to Ruth Pointer, of The Pointer Sisters, in the 1970s. The couple had a daughter, Issa Pointer.
He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989 as a member of The Temptations. During his tenure the group won Grammys for "Cloud Nine" and "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone."
We invite you to share condolences for Dennis Edwards in our Guest Book.
634 Entries
June C. Jackson
July 1, 2025
May his soul rest in peace. He will be greatly missed. JJ
June Jackson
July 1, 2025
May his soul rest in peace. He will be missed.
Kevin Chism
April 17, 2023
I met you in a Saint Louis Hospital sitting in the waiting room for our wives to finish with their appointments. That first time we met and connected, I didn´t even know you other than for being a great and descent human being. This ended with you asking me and my wife the baby sit your baby girl. I sure do wish that we could have taken you´ll up on that offer. You truly was a good man that will be greatly missed.
Paul D.
November 28, 2022
Thank you Mr. Edwards for all the joy and melodies that your legacy continues to bring to our lives. May The Lord watch over you in eternal peace and happiness .
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John Barron, Jr.
August 14, 2021
Dennis Edwards was a Great, Great singer. His voice will forever resonate in the minds of people. Our loss is heavens gain. My sincerest condolences go out to his family. Amen
Rena Murray
February 15, 2021
Dennis will always be remembered for his talent and member of the Temptations. My sincere condolences to his wife and family.
Ariella Kelly
May 22, 2020
RIP
Denise Hall
May 7, 2020
You will never be forgotten. May GOD bless you always.
Gwendolyn Miles
October 17, 2019
My condolences goes out to your family youll be well missed May is bless and your voice reached so many others youll always be remembered in our hearts
Pamela Fox
September 16, 2019
I Am A Fan Didn't Knew He Had Pass Sitting Up Here Looking At The Temptations
Jacquie Mayfield
July 27, 2019
God bless you you are singing for him now.
valerie montgomery
May 16, 2019
continue to rip enjoyed your music
allando bingham
April 26, 2019
we needed him and his gifts and more in our memory. nothing about you and your family forgotten love allando.bingham
Lyfe Stevenson
April 11, 2019
I was drawn here today after listening to a classic tune of Dennis Edwars the amazing talent. God rest his soul
February 26, 2019
Sooo much I love those songs knew all the lyrics danced to them I listen to to this day your voice will always be be in my mind
Antony Farmer
December 14, 2018
I just learned that Brother Dennis passed and I am sorry to hear that he is gone. We express sincere condolences to the family. He brought a unique soul sound to the Temptations and was one of our favorite singers of the 60/70's. We will miss him and pray for on going strength and great memories for his family and fans. We will miss him but will never forget his sound!!
M P
November 29, 2018
I'm so sorry for your loss. May the hope found in God's Word the Bible at Isa 26:19 help to comfort your family and friends. I will keep you in my prayers
Gail Berry
October 18, 2018
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Edwards. Oh, how I loved the Temptations Please know that Our Heavenly Father will become a secure refuge in times of distress. (Psalms 9:9)
October 18, 2018
I'm still coping with your loss as your spirit reaches out to me...igniting a passion of creativity that has lain dormant.
For me, it has been, is and always will be Dennis.
MJ, Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Arlene LeBeauf
September 23, 2018
I did not know he died. I met Dennis Edwards in 1967 in a little club in I think in Detroit. He was singing with another group. He was was very nice and tried to help me find a ring someone stole off my finger, I thought it fell on the floor. Rest In Heavenly Peace.
Anita Lambert
July 1, 2018
Sleep in Heavenly Peace , Dennis... You will be So Missed but Always Remembered ..Thank You for sharing your Life and Talents with us All... Rest ...
June 15, 2018
Missed so much.....thanks for so many good times and memories.
ADM
June 3, 2018
I met Dennis Edwards many years ago in Columbus, Georgia. He and his band were playing in the area and I was fortunate to meet him through a friend of mine. He was such a gentleman, he held my baby niece and spoke about how beautiful she was..and we chatted for a couple of minutes. It was a beautiful day and memory. He was so handsome and so down to earth. Thank you Mr. Edwards for sharing your wonderful God given talent with the world!!! May you sing with the angels....
May 18, 2018
Thank you for sharing your gifts with the world. RIP.
May 3, 2018
Dennis was a very special person who has a great voice. I was able to see him several times in concert. He was a great singer who loved his Mother and Birmingham, Al. Thanks to you, Dennis, for sharing the gift of music with your many fan. David Fields-Detroit, Miles College
Alice W.
May 2, 2018
I can't tell you how many times we have attended his concerts in Jersey, in Alabama.My husband and I enjoyed for many years the music thank you for all the joy you brought to us. Jer.29:11 is for our future. Please read... consider.
April 26, 2018
What a voice that will truly be missed. Thank you for the memories that will last a lifetime. May you sleep in peace. May your family be wrapped in the arms of our Lord for comfort and live on with loving memories.
Pat Allen - Clayton, NC
Leo
April 26, 2018
Thank you for your talent and all you did for the music we enjoy. R.I.P.
-LeoinPhx
Shirley Taylor
April 23, 2018
RIP
I hope that all the happiness your music brought to us on earth that it brings just as much happiness to the angels in heaven.
April 20, 2018
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
J. Rushin
April 18, 2018
Hello, first of all, my condolences to the family. He certainly brought a lot of fun into my life as a teenager. My favorites were I Can't Get Next to You and Papa Was a Rolling Stone. As a matter of fact, I used that song in one of my classes in high school reporting on African American music. I was very sorry to hear of his passing.
David Smith
April 17, 2018
Thank you Dennis for those brilliant vocals and memories, you brought great joy to millions including myself. You will always be remembered God bless you.
David Smith
UK
Gloria Ferguson
April 10, 2018
Rest in peace my brother, your music brought great joy to my life, thank you
First Name cheryl Last Name ziegler
April 8, 2018
Add your message here.dennis,you are a son of alabama who is a mighty cloud of joy that is also very tempting! Heaven is happier! I will always love you.
March 28, 2018
May God's holy spirit continuously comfort the Edwards family, relatives, and friends as you grieve the loss of your love one.
Alice Spicer
March 27, 2018
Dennis was a great singer/performer. He will be missed by millions. May God strengthen the family their hour of bereavement. Love you fotever Dennis.
Anthony Waters
March 20, 2018
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998
March 17, 2018
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Pat Bogan
March 9, 2018
Dennis, your voice will be forever recognized as one of the most familiar voices on earth. REST IN PEACE MY BROTHER!
Nazarene Mckinney
March 5, 2018
You will always be loved!
Clarence Walker
March 5, 2018
So many beautiful voices from the Motown era are long gone. And now legendary former lead Temptation singer Dennis Edwards has died and left us. I grew up as a kid in Southeast Arkansas near Delta Greenvillle Mississippi listening to the great sounds of Motown singers and other popular artists. I never knew much about the personal lives of the Temps until I watched the TV movie about the life of the Temptations. I loved the movie so much. Mr Edwards possessed a God-gifted powerful but smooth voice. I'd never thought that Dennis Edwards sung Cloud Nine, Papa Was a Rolling Stone and Edwards single hit, Don't
Look Any Further. So sorry Mr Edwards died. I give my condolences and prayers to Mr Ewards family and to his legacy. Dennis, Ruff,
Blue, Paul, KendricksI love you guys. And you all will be missed. Temptations Forever
March 3, 2018
RIP
Iristrese White
March 2, 2018
My great expression with my condolences goes out to the family, friends, and the Motown Family, I pray that the Heavenly Father will give you peace and comfort in the mist of you'll sorrow. R.I.P. my brother.
len green
March 1, 2018
mr dennis edwards
you will be sorely missed.
i grew up listening to you and the band on the radio every night, and some nights your music, your voice sent off to a deep sleep.
rip and my god be at your side from now on.
len green
Tony Flood
March 1, 2018
Dennis may God bless your soul and you Rest In Peace. You were a one of a kind talent whose music legacy will be with us always. You were the best my brother!
March 1, 2018
Sympathy to the family and friends of Dennis Edwards.May the God who gives Comfort and Strength be with the family in these difficult days that lies ahead. The music was pleasant to the hearers.
SP
JANICE ANDERSON
February 27, 2018
REST IN HEAVEN DENNIS! A TRUE FAN
Truly a Fan Williams
February 26, 2018
May Jehovah be with all the family of Dennis Ewards.
He was loved by many for his kindness and beautiful singing voice! Such a gift from his Heavenlt Father.
Rest in peace dear one, rest in peace
Vivian Felder
February 26, 2018
Dennis Edwards will b Saddly missed. What a strong voice he had. He fit the temptation group like a glove. He came n & he was fine,with so much to give & he us all more then his share. We r thankful for all I've given us. Thank u so much. Take ur rest & sing all over heaven.
Mattie Hopkins
February 24, 2018
I listen to your music regularly. You will be truly missed by your fans. RIP Dennis.
S. Jamison
February 22, 2018
Missing you.
GERALDINE HOOKER
February 22, 2018
Rest in Peace Dennis!
GERALDINE HOOKER
February 22, 2018
Dennis Edwards has and will always be my all time favorite singer. I grew up on the Temptation's music. May Dennis rest in peace.
Brenita Dorsey
February 21, 2018
We're really going 2 miss you
Diane Butler
February 21, 2018
My condolences to the Edwards family, friends and fans.
I love seeing you on Good Day Chicago some short months prior and will always cherish the fun and classic memories of all your performances with the Temptations and more! Thank You . Rest in peace.
Benjamin Caldwell
February 19, 2018
Rest in Peace , Mr. Dennis Edwards. Loves all
the songs you did. prays the family .
Benjamin Caldwell,
(Fort Myers, Fl.)
Benjamin Caldwell
February 19, 2018
R.I.P. Mr. Dennis Edwards, love the all the songs you did here, now you can keep on singing with the Lord. Pray for the family.
Benjamin Caldwell
February 19, 2018
Rest in Peace , Mr. Dennis Edwards. Loves all the songs you did. prays the family .
Cassandra Stover
February 19, 2018
Love u will be miss RIP
Kenny and Dianna Kaut
February 19, 2018
My wife, Dianna and I saw the Temptations at the Kiel Opera House in 1971. We were 16 years old and bought out tickets at Joe's Music on North Kingshiway at Delmar. When The Temps opened the concert, they sing Cloud Nine and started the song by singing, "I was born and raised in St. Louis Missouri" and everyone loved it. And all the new songs that brought all people together to party was great!! A bottle of Ripple, a girl, and some Temptation music and you could chill all week end! Bye, Dennis, see you in heaven!
Brenda Freeman
February 18, 2018
R.I.P Mr. Edwards
Betty P.
February 18, 2018
Miss you already Dennis! There will never be another! RIP!!
Wendy Pearson
February 18, 2018
Rest in Peace My Old Friend
February 18, 2018
The songs will live on and so will Mr. Edwards memory, May the God of all comfort sustain you as you mourn the loss of your loved one. (Psalms 119:76).
Greg Roberts
February 18, 2018
Thank you for being such a good person.
GOD has smiled on you.
Ed Brown
February 17, 2018
One of the best voices ever. I met him once, and he seemed like an old friend, he was so gracious. May God continue to bless him and his entire family.
Irene
February 17, 2018
Thank you Dennis, for your great voice! I remember you! I was at a very good concert in The Netherlands 1998 with The Temptations.I hear your music everyday everywhere.. Condoleances to all the Temptations members!! and family, friends. Rest in Peace, with love from the Netherlands, Irene
Royston Hinsley
February 16, 2018
RIP Mr Dennis Edwards you rocked Manchester UK to its foundations with that powerful & so soulful voice. Love and Respect. Royston xx
Celestine Fordham
February 16, 2018
We are praying for the family and all of his friends and fans.
Celestine Fordham
February 16, 2018
We are praying for the family and all of his friends and fans. You will be so
Debbie Brewer
February 16, 2018
Thanks for the Memories. been a fan since i was a young Girl growing up in the city of Philadelphia, PA. God Bless The Family.
Rose Nolden
February 16, 2018
don't look any further Dennis Edwards has maded through the pearlie gates of heaven he's on cloud nine. rest on my soulful brother!!!!!!
Cameron Dotsonsr
February 16, 2018
My heart goes out to the family be strong he is in all mighty hands now
February 16, 2018
I love the temptations and Dennis was an outstanding vocalist who truly will be missed. Rest in paradise. He's a star in the clouds singing in heaven.
February 14, 2018
Thanks for the memories sleep tight big man.Rob & Angie Uk.
Robert Thomas
February 13, 2018
Condolences to the Edwards family. I'm praying that God will give you strength to get through this time of grief.#TemptationForever
John & Susan White
February 13, 2018
To The Family We Are Sorry For Your Loss Are Condolences & Prayers Go Out To You All & Dennis You Will Truly Be Missed R.I.P. Sir
KEN MOORE
February 13, 2018
HE WAS an
OLD FRIEND AND ASSOCIATE FROM MY REALTIONSHIP WITH EDDIE KENDRICKS!!!!!
Jennifer
February 13, 2018
You will be missed the man with the great smile and heart to match. Enjoyed meeting you and your wife.
February 13, 2018
RIP my Brother, my look alike.
Maxine Boatwright
February 13, 2018
All the voices are in heaven now. Eddie, David, Melvin, Paul, and now you Dennis. Miss all of you. Thank you Dennis for the memories. You always had nothing but good things to say about your brothers. May God rest your soul.
Eric Ware
February 13, 2018
They don't make em like this anymore. R.I.P, man, had I been born a decade earlier, I may have met or played with you in the Motor City. Now, I'm in Canada, and the songs that pack the dance floor, are, you guessed it Motown. Thank you, may God rest your soul. Peace.
DeLoise
February 12, 2018
Aloha! Mr. Dennis Edwards. Thanks for the memories. My family and friends from St. Louis attended the Temptations Concert every year.
Afterwards, we would line the Street on Ashland Ave at your Mom's home, hoping to get a quick glimpse of you and the others. Most of us lived in the hood. I lived on Vine Grove Av.
R.I.P. We love you. Your music will live on in the hearts of many people near or far.
From Ms DeLoise M. In Lovely Hawaii
Nina Hoggard
February 12, 2018
Thank you for all of the music. RIP
Nez Hoggard
February 12, 2018
Michael Murphy
February 12, 2018
RIP, your vocals were special. Michael Murphy.
EW&F....
Anita Franklin
February 12, 2018
Condolences to Mr Dennis Edwards family may The Lord and His Angles continue to Bless and watch over you in the months ahead
February 12, 2018
I loved Dennis Edwards singing. 65 now and still love his music. You will never be forgotten in St. Louis. We loved Dennis. Thanks for entertaining us over the years. You were the best. Juanita Thomas(Blackjack MO)
Richard Thomas
February 12, 2018
Rest in heavenly peace my friend!You will be missed.
Kuwana Baker
February 12, 2018
Absolutely heartbroken!!!!!!!! Praying for peace and comfort to the family, friends and fans!!!
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