James Upshur Edwards III

September 19, 1946 - December 19, 2023

Charlotte, North Carolina - James "Jim" Upshur Edwards III, a beacon of resilience and joy, passed away on December 19, 2023, leaving behind a legacy that embodies the celebration of a life well-lived. Born on September 19, 1946, in Manchester, NH, Jim navigated life with a disciplined approach, forged in the crucible of a Type I Diabetes diagnosis at the tender age of 11.

Jim's journey through life mirrored the rhythmic strokes of a world-class swimmer. From his formative years at Williston Academy, a premier swimming institution in Easthampton, MA, to the currents of the University of North Carolina, where he swam on scholarship, Jim's competitive spirit defined his aquatic prowess.

His commitment to fitness and nutrition, honed by the challenges of diabetes, manifested in daily pilgrimages to the YMCA. Yet, it was not just about physical well-being for Jim; it was a philosophy that radiated warmth and engagement. His engaging personality drew people close, savoring every moment with family and friends.

Beyond the pool, Jim navigated the currents of a successful career in international banking and dedicated himself to philanthropy, volunteering at an SBA start-up business incubator. His love for life extended to the culinary realm, with "regular" dining spots becoming the backdrop for cherished memories.

At the heart of Jim's universe was his beloved family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Margaret Anne "Maggie," who stood by his side; his children, John David Burton and Andrea Edwards Scalia and grandson, Joseph Edmund Scalia. Jim's familial bonds were unbreakable.

A service to celebrate Jim's life will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at Christ Episcopal Church, 1412 Providence Road, Charlotte, NC. The family will receive friends following the service in the Blue Room at the church. The service will be livestreamed at: https://www.christchurchcharlotte.org/funeral-live-broadcast/ for those unable to attend in person.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), 200 Vesey Street, 28th Floor, New York, NY 10281 (https://www2.jdrf.org/site/TR?fr_id=9412&pg=personal&px=13953116), a cause close to Jim's heart. As we bid farewell, let us remember Jim Edwards not for his final stroke, but for the vibrant ripples of a life lived fully.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

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Published by Charlotte Observer on Jan. 14, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for James Edwards

7 Entries

Hamilton Gadd

January 16, 2024

Jim was our anchor man on our Medley Relay at Chapel Hill. He was always a unbelievable talent and a true friend.
God Bless and RIP,
Ham Gadd

David Beebe

January 16, 2024

Jim and I were classmates at Williston, and, during his first year there, we had no contact. Next thing I knew, we were living across the hall from each other in Campbell House our senior year. It was a pleasure getting to know him, and a real "life lesson" in seeing how he handled the everyday difficulties he confronted. Modest, funny, humble, self-effacing, just one of the truly nice guys. My condolences to the family.

Michael Fitzmaurice

January 14, 2024

Jim and I have been great friends for 60 years. We swam against one another thru Prep School and College and he was both a great competitor and an even greater friend. Always a smile, always a kind word, and always an arm around no matter who won after the competition. Loved him dearly and miss him already even more. My wife, Julie, and I were great friends of he and Maggie and would go out to eat periodically and enjoyed every minute. Good man, great husband, tremendous friend

Jim Britt

January 14, 2024

I met Jim on February 1, 1964 as a member of the host swim team at Deerfield Academy. He was the All Star of the meet when he broke the American Prep School Record in the 200 yard freestyle. The Deerfield team, fans for both Williston and the home team all celebrated his day . When Jim arrived in Chapel Hill 18 months later, we all knew we had a winner to help lead the team. Upon graduation, he became a business all star for the Charlotte community.

Leigh Fischer

January 14, 2024

Jim was such a kind and caring neighbor. I will miss the friendly exchanges we shared on his daily walk. Thinking of Maggie and family during this sad time.

E. Scott McQuade

January 14, 2024

Jim was 5 years older than I was but we became great friends through competitive swimming. Even after college with both of us working in our careers we trained on our lunch hour together and traveled to National Championship Masters Meets. Even though we have not seen each other in years I still have very fond memories of our time spent together. He will be greatly missed.

James Cain

January 14, 2024

I was a freshman at Williston when Jim was a senior. He was man among boys in the pool and an inspiration to everyone on campus. To this starry eyed 14 year old he was a stud.

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