Robert Grey Edwards Sr.

1933 - 2023

Robert Grey Edwards Sr.

September 18, 1933 - January 16, 2023

Robert Grey Edwards Sr., 89, of Bristol, Va., died at home on January 16, 2023. He was born in Clinchco, Va., on September 18, 1933, to the late Lillian Mae Colley and Harrison Wesley Edwards.

Bob married his childhood sweetheart, Betty Mullins, in 1953 and they remained together for over 69 years until her death last May.

Bob enlisted in the U.S. Army at age 16 and served in the Korean Conflict as a medic. He then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and was posted to Washington State, Bermuda, Charleston Washington, D.C., and Andrews Air Force Base, where he spent most of his career serving as a steward aboard the planes of Military Air Transport.

He served Presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy and Johnson aboard AIr Force One. He also helped transport military and political leaders, foreign dignataries, astronauts returning from space to visit the President, and on one memorable occasion former President Hoover who was attempting to reach President Kennedy's inauguration during a snowstorm.

Bob retired from the Air Force in 1970 as a Master Sargeant. He then managed food service operations for Marriot Corporation in Washington, D.C. and Greensboro, N.C. before retiring back to Southwestern Virginia.

In retirement, Bob and Betty traveled extensively and had many happy memories vacationing with their family, especially at the beach. They enjoyed serving others, and volunteered with Meals on Wheels until a few years ago.

Bob was predeceased by his beloved wife, Betty; his brother, Arthur; and his parents. He is survived by his brother, Richard Edwards (Pat); brother-in-law, Larry Mullins (Kathleen); and his children, Jena Sallenger (Walter), Rob Edwards (Janie), Mike Edwards (Pat), and Missy Keesee (Bill). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jessamyn, Joshua, Seth, Ariel and Hannah, as well as great-grandchildren, Irie, Oliver, Francesca, Ava, and Molly.

The funeral services will be conducted at 12 noon Monday, January 23, 2023, in Akard Home Chapel with the Rev. Scott Price officiating. Visitation will be held at 11 a.m. Burial will be conducted at 2 p.m. at Mountain Home National Cemetery in Johnson City, Tenn.

The family wishes to thank Caris Hospice; friend, Bobbie Nunley; Dr. Boccarossa; and the V.A. Home Based Primary Care team for their kindness and care.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at akardfuneralhome.com

Akard Funeral Home (423)989-4800 is honored to be serving the Edwards family.