Richard E. Edwards

Richard E. Edwards Richard E. Edwards, 81, Hilton Head Island, formally of Bloomfield Hills, MI passed away peacefully at his home. A Ford Engineering Executive of 35 years he was Chief Engineer in Testing Operations Ford of Europe with the Fiesta responsible for complete vehicle development and was included in the publication of "Lets Call It Fiesta" describing the birth of a major motorcar. He was in collaboration with laboratories and materials in Germany and England along with test tracks in Belgium and England. Executive Engineer in mechanical engineering for production of mechanical components for car and truck. A Department Manager, Vehicle Design, directing and controlling vehicle design of Ford Thunderbird, Fairlaine and Mustang. Richard also enjoyed the experience and responsibilities with Ford in Germany, England, Belgium and Japan. He was always connected with Ford even in retirement and remained an active automotive consultant for over 5 years traveling from HHI to Dearborn, MI. A devoted family man who loved traveling, dining, his family and his pets Maggie, Mac, Cupcake and Mozart. Richard is survived by his wife Betty of 58 years and two daughters, Pamela and son-in law Rick Chestnut, Dianne Moore and one son Kevin and daughter-in-law Donna Edwards; three grandchildren Ryan Moore, Amy Nichols, John Chestnut and one great-grand daughter Briana Nichols. He was a past member of the Country Club of Hilton Head, HHI Plantation Farmers Club and Yacht Club and was also a member of the First Presbyterian Church. The family will receive friends at The Island Funeral Home and Crematory, Sunday September 27, from 4PM-6 PM, with a service to follow at 6 PM. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Hospice Care of the Lowcountry, P.O. Box 3827, Bluffton, S.C. 29910 (www.hospicecarelc.org) or Hilton Head Humane Association, P.O. Box 21790, Hilton Head Island, S.C. 29925 A memorial will be held at White Chapel in Troy, MI. at a later date.