James Carlyle "Kirk" Edwards

In Loving Memory of James "Kirk" Carlyle Edwards
November 13, 1955 – November 26, 2024
James "Kirk" Carlyle Edwards, a man of immense kindness, patience, and devotion, passed away on November 26, 2024, in Fort Worth, Texas, at the age of 69. Born on November 13, 1955, in Abilene, Texas, Kirk was the beloved son of James Nelson Edwards and Ida Faye Snow-Edwards. His life was a testament to faith, family, and love, and his impact on those around him will be cherished for generations to come.
Kirk lived alongside his two siblings in a household defined by unwavering faith, strong morals, and abundant love. Although he got his nickname from his grandfather's name, his deep admiration for Star Trek inspired him to use the name "Kirk" as a lifelong nickname. From an early age, he demonstrated a gentle yet adventurous spirit, guided in part by his Nanaw, his grandmother and greatest childhood confidante. Their profound bond remained one of Kirk's most treasured memories, and her influence served as a beacon of joy and guidance throughout his formative years.
In his youth, Kirk was baptized at age 11 in the Baptist faith, which became the cornerstone of his life's journey. His family moved to the Fort Worth area when he was 9 in 1965, and he grew up in the Blue Mound area where he graduated from Boswell High School. Shortly thereafter, he answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Navy. He spent two years stationed on a ship, applying his keen intellect and technical aptitude to underwater electronics engineering.
Kirk's life forever changed in 1987 when he met the love of his life, Cheryle, at Saginaw Park Baptist Church. Captivated by her spirit, Kirk persistently pursued her until she finally said yes. They married on June 16, 1988, beginning a partnership built on unwavering love and respect. Along with his role as Cheryle's devoted husband, Kirk embraced the role of father to her three children with open arms, blending their families into one harmonious unit. Together, they raised their six sons with compassion, imparting enduring lessons of patience, morality, and integrity.
Kirk's legacy as a family man was unmatched. When tragedy struck and Cheryle's son, David Pearson, Sr., passed away, Kirk and Cheryle did not hesitate to take in their grandson and granddaughter, raising them as their own. Bloodlines never mattered to Kirk; every child in his care was loved as his own flesh and blood.
Outside of his family, Kirk found joy in the simple yet profound pleasures of life. An avid outdoorsman, he was a skilled fisherman who loved guiding others on fishing adventures, sharing his expertise and enthusiasm for the sport. At home, he spent countless hours in his woodworking shop, crafting games like Wahoo and cornhole boards that became cherished family heirlooms. His creations, imbued with love and care, symbolized his commitment to family togetherness.
Kirk's passion for family extended beyond his immediate circle. Each year, he organized a beloved family reunion, serving as the heart of these gatherings. Known affectionately as "Pawpaw," he embodied the role of grandfather with warmth and pride, always finding ways to bring smiles to his grandchildren's faces.
After retiring from the trucking industry, Kirk devoted himself even more fully to his family and home. For the last seven years of his life, he cooked every meal for Cheryle, cleaned the house, and did the laundry, always finding joy in supporting his wife in any way he could. Their bond was a beautiful partnership of love, trust, and mutual respect-a true testament to the power of commitment and friendship.
Kirk is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Cheryle Edwards; his sons, Michael Lane and his wife, Angie, Dan Pearson, Jr. and his wife, Stephanie, Chris Edwards and his wife, Erin, Dustin Pearson and his wife, Leah, and Jeramy Edwards; his sister, Sherri Spindor and her husband, James; his brother, Ken Edwards and his wife, Lynn; eight grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and countless extended family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his cherished Nanaw and Granddaddy, his parents, his daughter, Shannon, his son David Pearson, Sr., and his granddaughter Kenna Lane.
A funeral service to celebrate Kirk's remarkable life will be held on Friday, December 6, at Azle Funeral Chapel, located on the grounds of Azleland Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM, followed by the service at 2:00 PM. A reception will follow at Stingers Restaurant in Azle, where family and friends will gather to share memories of this extraordinary man.
Kirk's legacy lives on in the love he gave, the lives he touched, and the values he instilled. He was a man of faith, a devoted husband, a caring father and grandfather, and a true friend. While his presence will be deeply missed, his spirit remains forever woven into the fabric of his family's hearts.
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