Mr. Gerald W. Edwards Sr.

Gerald "Muscles" Edwards Sr. was born on February 12, 1968, in Detroit, Michigan, to Thomas Edwards and Betty Jean Glover. From the very beginning, Gerald's life was marked by strength, determination, and a deep love for family. He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Betty Jean Glover; his cherished son, Gerald "Jamby" Edwards Jr.; his grandmother, Chintee "Tina" Moore; and his brother, Greg Edwards, all of whom held a special place in his heart.

A man of faith, Gerald was baptized at Sheffield Family Life Center however, later attended Oak Grove Baptist Church and carried his Christian values with him throughout his life. While attending King High School, he proudly served in the ROTC, where his discipline and physical strength earned him the nickname "Muscles"-a name that would follow him for life. His dedication paid off when he received a football scholarship to Virginia Union University. On the field, he became known as "Robo Cop," admired for his toughness, dependability, and unwavering commitment to his team.

Gerald's greatest joy came from giving back, especially to young people. He devoted countless hours to coaching his daughter's softball team and mentoring youth through the Missouri Wolverines football program. To the many athletes he guided, Gerald was more than a coach-he was a role model who taught discipline, confidence, and perseverance.

Known among family and friends as a true grill master, Gerald had a gift for bringing people together. His legendary BBQ-especially his chicken and ribs-turned gatherings into lasting memories filled with laughter, love, and connection.

On November 16, 1991, Gerald married the love of his life, Cassandra Edwards, and together they built a life rooted in family and faith. He worked diligently as a Pressman and Loader at The Kansas City Star and the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant, always providing for his loved ones with pride and dedication.

Gerald "Muscles" Edwards Sr. departed this life on December 20, 2025, at KU Medical Center. Though his physical presence is gone, his legacy lives on through the lives he touched-as a loving husband, devoted father, faithful son, mentor, and loyal friend.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Cassandra; his daughter, Kylee; his father, Thomas Edwards; his brothers Stanley, James (Sonya), Timothy (Darlene), Harold (Eileen), Kijan (Christine) and Jerrie; his sister, Makunda (Steven); his sisters-in-law Rosalind Swims, Nina Gutierrez, and Lynn Ross; and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, extended family members, and friends who will forever remember his strength, generosity, and love.

Funeral services Saturday, January 3, 2026 at 11:00am at Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church. Interment XII Gates Memorial Gardens. Visitation Saturday 10:00am-11:00am at the church. Arrangements entrusted to Lawrence A. Jones & Sons. Condolences may be shared on our website.