George Broadus Edwards

George Broadus (Sonny) Edwards (November 16, 1941-April 21, 2025) was a dedicated and faithful servant of God who put the needs of his family and students above all else. Born in Greenville, SC to the late Broadus Edwards, a truck driver, and the late Lizzie (Johnson) Edwards, a nurse, he always wanted a career where he could help others. He began his collegiate studies at South Carolina State University, where he pledged Kappa Alpha Psi (Alpha Lambda chapter) and earned a Bachelor's degree in Biology in 1964. He later earned his Master's degree in Education from North Carolina A&T State University. Upon graduation, George, along with friends, the late Randall Scotland, and Mr. Fletcher Pierce accepted teaching positions in the McCormick School District. George accepted a position as a science teacher at the high school. Little did he know, that this position would shape his entire life. Upon his arrival he saw a young lady, Vivian Searles, and told his friends that he would marry her. She would soon become the love of his life. They wed on January 2, 1966. As the Vietnam War escalated, George was drafted to serve in the Army. He bravely served two tours, earning 3 Purple Hearts, a service medal, a Bronze star and a Bronze star with V (Valor), a US Armed Forces decoration that recognizes heroism, outstanding achievement, or meritorious service in a combat zone. An avid sportsman, George began coaching the McCormick High School Chiefs as an assistant football coach, boys basketball coach and later girls varsity basketball coach. He would go on to coach at McCormick High School for 42 years earning the following accolades: 4 times Regional Coach of Year, Lakeland Coach of Year; winner of 400 games and 4 Regional championships. Because of his unwavering dedication to McCormick High school sports, the McCormick County School District renamed its gym the Edwards Goodwin Court in his honor. George was beyond dedicated to McCormick High. He spent many decades arriving to school before the janitors to prep for his day. He retired from teaching in 2009 after 45 years. In those years he won Teacher of the Year 4 times and District Teacher of the Year twice. After retiring, George spent his time, attending sporting events, traveling and being an active member in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. He served faithfully as usher, trustee, Sons of Allen director, and Sunday School teacher at the churches his wife pastored. On April 21, 2025, George answered God's call and transitioned into eternal rest. He is survived by his loving wife, Vivian S. Edwards, a son, Gregory Edwards (Amy), a daughter, Tameka Dixon (Shay), a younger brother, Thomas Edwards (Mary), three grandchildren (Darnell, Jackson, and Carsen) and a host of nephews and nieces. He is proceeded in death by his parents, and brothers, James Edwards (Myrtle Lee) and JayBee Johnson. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, April 27, 2025 at 3:00pm at the Mount Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church PLEAD Center, 122 New Zion Road, Bradley, SC 29819. Public viewing will be from 2:00 - 3:00pm. Private interment will be held on Monday, April 28, 2025 at 11:00am at Resthaven Memorial Gardens, 1655 Piedmont Highway, Piedmont, SC 29673. Parks Funeral Home is assisting the Edwards Family.