Obituary published on Legacy.com by Marietta Funeral Home & Crematory - Marietta on Nov. 24, 2025.
Edgar James Bloodworth (Ed) passed away peacefully on November 19, 2025, shortly after celebrating
his 99th birthday. He was the cherished husband of Joan Rebecca Bloodworth, with whom he shared 71
wonderful years of marriage. Together, Ed and Joan built a life rich in family, friendships, and countless
memories.
Ed was born on November 13, 1926, to James W and Althea Noble McGreevy in Savannah, Georgia.
Tragically, Ed lost his father when he was just five years old, prompting his family to relocate to Miami,
Florida. In Miami, Ed spent his formative years alongside his brother, Bob, and together they built many
treasured memories. Eventually, Ed's mother married Oliver H. B. Bloodworth, and both Ed and his
brother were adopted by him.
During his youth in Miami, Ed enjoyed a childhood filled with memorable experiences. Among his
accomplishments, he won the World Junior Moth-boat Sailing Championship, an event held at Biscayne
Bay, which remained a highlight of his early life.
At the age of 13, Ed endured a life-changing event when he suffered a playground accident that resulted
from him being stepped on. This injury led to the development of Osteomyelitis, a rare bone disease
that threatened the loss of his right leg. Ed spent more than a year hospitalized, undergoing several
operations to save his leg. During his treatment, he became one of the first civilians to receive Penicillin,
which ultimately allowed doctors to preserve his limb.
Not long after his recovery and release from the hospital, Ed faced yet another period of deep sorrow.
At the young age of 14, he lost his beloved mother, a loss compounded by the passing of his stepfather
soon after. These profound experiences of grief and hardship during his early teenage years played a
significant role in forging Ed's remarkable resilience and unwavering determination. The strength he
developed during these formative years became a defining characteristic that guided him throughout
the rest of his life.
Ed's remarkable work ethic and unwavering faith in God helped him persevere through the hardships
that marked his early life. Like many of his generation, he faced adversity with determination and
resilience. Unable to complete his formal education, Ed entered the workforce at just 15 years old,
beginning his career in a welding shop. This experience was instrumental in shaping a lifelong trait: his
unique ability to learn new skills, solve problems, and fix almost anything-whether it was a car, an
appliance, or electronics.
Ed's talent for figuring things out and his willingness to tackle challenges became defining qualities
throughout his life. His career path eventually led him to
Marietta, Georgia, where he dedicated nearly
four decades to Lockheed Martin.
Ed possessed a zest for life that was evident in his love for travel, good food, and laughter. Despite
coming from humble beginnings, his determination and hard work enabled him to provide his family
with a life that far exceeded what might have been expected. His faith was a cornerstone of his
character; he was a devout Christian who eagerly shared his beliefs with anyone willing to listen.
Known for his storytelling, Ed delighted in sharing anecdotes, witty remarks, and jokes that brought
smiles to those around him.
His passion for music often inspired him to dance at the slightest encouragement. Ed's enthusiasm for food was especially apparent when it came to homemade ice cream-a treat he savored throughout his life, always maintaining a hearty appetite.
Ed was a devoted father, cherishing the special bond he shared with his six children. His deep
commitment to family was evident throughout his life, and he took great pride in nurturing and guiding
each of his children. Ed is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan Bloodworth, with whom he built a
loving home, and by his son, Randy Bloodworth, whose memory he held close to his heart.
Ed's legacy continues through his surviving children: Rebecca (Becky) Conrad, Robert (Greg) Bloodworth,
Paul Bloodworth, Sandra Ellis, and Gary Bloodworth, along with their spouses. His role as a father
extended into the lives of his 19 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, each of whom were a source
of immense joy and pride. The blessings of his large and loving family stand as a testament to Ed's life
and values.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to
Samaritan's Purse.