Robert Lee Edwards

1955 - 2023

Robert Lee (Bobby) Edwards of Charlottesville, Virginia, 68, passed away unexpectedly on December 7, 2023. He will be remembered for his quick wit, genuine kindness, and tremendous love for his family and friends.

Bobby was born May 25, 1955, in Newport News, Virginia, to H. Lee Edwards and Minnie G. "Pat" Edwards. He is survived by his wife, Karen Jones Edwards of Charlottesville and her son, Ryan Cotton and his partner, Michael Baskowski, of Boston; sister, Nancy Edwards Foster and her husband, Stephen, of Newport News; and an extended family of cousins and lifelong friends.

Growing up in Newport News, Bobby attended St. Andrews Episcopal School through the sixth grade, after which he attended Newport News public schools, graduating in 1973. Bobby was a brilliant student with an impeccable memory. Although small in stature, he loved sports and excelled in tennis, competing in tournaments across the Commonwealth. As friends recall, Bobby was often underestimated by his opponents, much to their detriment. What he lacked in sheer size and strength, he made up for in smarts, quickness and savvy. Bobby retained those advantages all through his life.

In the fall of 1973, Bobby headed to The University of Virginia from which he earned a BS degree in Commerce from the McIntire School of Commerce (1977), a MS degree in Accounting (1978), and a JD degree from the University's School of Law (1983). He was very proud of being a 'Triple Hoo," and dearly loved The University. As a part of this journey, he and close friends appeared in a lively photograph in Virginius Dabney's 1981 book, MR. JEFFERSON'S UNIVERSITY, illustrating the true spirit of Easter's Weekends in the 70's.

Bobby's academic achievements led him to New York City, where he accepted a position at the international accounting firm of Ernst & Young, formerly Ernst & Whinney. He later practiced corporate law for several years before ultimately transitioning into investment banking, initially with Citigroup and later with Credit Suisse, from which he retired in 2008. Throughout this time in New York, Charlottesville was an important destination, and in 2013, Bobby and Karen made the decision to make Charlottesville their permanent home.

During his life, Bobby's enthusiastic curiosity and dry sense of humor opened doors to enduring friendships, a hallmark of his life. From orchestrating unexpected pranks to painting "Ralph's House" on the dome of University Hall, Bobby embraced life and celebrated those he loved and admired. Often attired at pregame tailgates in a blue blazer, khakis, UVA hat and orange tie from his extensive collection, he was known for his steadfast loyalty and sheer determination. This was clearly illustrated by his tenacious commitment to the dual frustrations of Virginia football and becoming a better golfer.

Bobby was most content with his wife Karen by his side. He lived his values and always strived to "do the right thing." He was indeed a good and honorable man. "Now cracks a noble heart. Good night, sweet prince, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest."

A Celebration of Bobby's life and adventures will be held Saturday, January 27, 2024, at Farmington Country Club in Charlottesville from 3 to 5 p.m. in the afternoon.

For those who would wish to make a donation in Bobby's memory, please consider a gift to Brain Injury Services, 8136 Olde Keene Mill Road B-102 Springfield VA 22152 - or - The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, 28 West 44th Street, Suite 609, New York, NY 10036.