Edward Kenneth Isbey Jr. M.D.

Edward Kenneth Isbey, Jr., M.D. passed away on August 31, 2023, surrounded by his family and close friends. He was preceded in death by Brian Isbey, Ford Isbey, Roxane Isbey, Jr. and Steve Lomax.
Edward was born to Edward and Marian Isbey on August 25, 1929, in Detroit, MI. He attended Grosse Pointe High School and loved playing multiple sports. After graduation, he attended Dartmouth College and Wayne State University Medical School. Following his residency at Kresge Eye Institute, he served in the U.S. Navy for two years in Portsmouth, VA. In 1961, he began practicing ophthalmology in Asheville, NC. In 1987, he partnered with Thomas Beardsley, M.D., and Edward Isbey, III, M.D., to form Asheville Eye Associates and helped the practice become a premier provider of eye care. His medical practice spanned 50 years.
He was a national leader in ophthalmology. He had active roles in the American Academy of Ophthalmology, NC Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons, and especially The American Eye Study Club. He was forward-thinking, innovative, and encouraged others to pursue their passions.
Edward is survived by his wife Rita Lomax Isbey of 38 years; his son, Edward Isbey, III (Jane); his daughter, Caroline Isbey Russell (Allen); and his daughter-in-law, Julie Isbey (Ford), Monica Lomax Turbyfill (Bill), Susanne Lomax Greenwood (Brian), Heidi Lomax Kramon (Gordon) and Lisbeth Lomax Harrison. He is also survived by multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He loved his family, people and life. Edward made friends very easily and had friends throughout the United States. If he sat next to a stranger on a plane, by the end of the flight they were good friends. He gave of himself to help his family, his patients and countless others. Edward's passions included fly-fishing, orchids and the practice of ophthalmology.
He will be missed by all the people who have known and loved him. The family is very grateful for the love, assistance, and kindness provided by so many people.
The memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at Trinity Episcopal Church with a reception to follow in the church's Tuton Hall.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to American Eye Study Club Foundation, 10 W. Phillip Rd, Suite 120, Vernon Hills, IL 60061-1730 or Manna Food Bank, 627 Swannanoa River Rd., Asheville, NC 28805-2445.
Groce Funeral Home's Lake Julian team is assisting the family.