Thomas W. Edwards Jr.

In the tapestry of life, Thomas Edwards shone like a rare piece of starlight-beautiful, bright, and unparalleled. Thomas Edwards Jr. entered eternal rest on September 11, 2024. He was born on March 28, 1976, in Newark, New Jersey to Faith Edgar Sr. and the late Thomas Edwards Sr. Thomas, known affectionately as "Tommy," touched the lives of many with a heart as pure as an angel's and a spirit as resilient as a warrior's. His ability to bring joy and laughter into the lives of others, even in his own times of struggle, defined his character and made his presence truly remarkable.
Tommy developed a relationship with God through his teachings at Sunday school as a young boy. He continued to grow spiritually and deepen his faith walk by living his life in a manner that epitomized the teachings of Jesus Christ. As a community leader and public servant, Tommy found his life purpose. The way he cared for all of God's children was a ministry. Some of his acts of kindness were public while others were done privately. Many stories are told of the various ways Tommy blessed others. The impact of his works is best reflected in Matthew 25:40 which says, the king will answer them, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."
A lifelong resident of Essex County, NJ, Tommy was not only a cherished father, but also a beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, and cousin within the Edgar, Edwards, Bennett, and Upshaw families. His dedication to his community was profound, leaving an indelible mark through his numerous contributions.
Tommy's education journey began in the Orange School system, where he attended Cleveland Street Elementary School, Orange Middle and Orange High Schools. His professional path was diverse, showcasing his versatility and commitment. From his early days as a Veterinary Assistant at Cedar Grove Animal Hospital to his roles in various capacities including a Dietary Server at Brookhaven Nursing Home, Funeral Director's Assistant at Garden Hill Funeral Services, and Department of Public Works Laborer with the City of Orange Township, Tommy's career reflected his hardworking nature and dedication.
His impact extended far beyond his professional life. In 2018, Thomas founded the "Need to Feed" organization, which distributed over 6 tons of free food and toiletries to community members, embodying his deep compassion and commitment to service in Orange, East Orange and Newark. He played a key role in organizing various municipal events and activities throughout the city. Tommy often helped to organize and facilitate activities that served the community. He hosted basketball tournaments in the park, block parties, advocated for special recognition events to honor local citizens, assisted in painting Black Lives Matter mural and was instrumental in coordinating Juneteenth celebrations in Orange, NJ. As a former district leader in the North Ward, he promoted community awareness and advocacy for issues that impacted the community members' rights and safety. Tommy received a community service award on June 4, 2022 to recognize his devotion and service to the community.
Tommy possessed notable talents and skills he developed and had naturally. He was a talented drummer who was a member of the Orange Lancers Precision Drill Team and Orange High School Band during his youth. Tommy had a propensity to engage people and draw a crowd. He was a talented free styler and lent his promotion skills to hosting comedy shows and other live entertainment events in Georgia and New Jersey.
Known for his boundless enthusiasm and genuine interest in others, Thomas never met a stranger. His kindness, empathy, and unique talent for bringing people together made him a treasured friend to all. His life, though not without its challenges and imperfections, was marked by an unwavering loyalty and a profound ability to make a difference in his local communities. He loved to laugh, crack jokes and offer to lend a helping hand in any way he could. Tommy was very humble yet always made sure he was dressed with all the right accessories and haircut.
Thomas Edwards's legacy is one of brightness and benevolence, a life lived in a manner that makes his loss deeply felt by those who knew him. If a book were to be written about his life, it would surely be titled "Brighter Than the Sun," a testament to the light he brought into the world.
Thomas Edwards was preceded in death by his grandparents, Edward L. Edgar Sr. and Bessie Edgar, Elizabeth Harrell and aunts, Hope Webster and Lessie Edwards. Tommy is survived by his two beloved daughters Imaje' Edwards and Chloe Johnson, beloved mother Faith Edgar Sr., beloved big sister Faith Edgar Jr., beloved partner Jennifer Johnson, uncles, Edward L. Edgar Jr., Frank Edgar (Barbara), Kim Edgar (Joanne), Mark Edgar, Ruby Josey, Hershey Edwards, Florence Jeter, Lisa Edwards, a host of beloved cousins, friends, and a community that will forever remember him for his warmth and dedication. As we say goodbye, we honor a life well-lived and a heart that will be greatly missed.
**Rest in peace, Thomas Edwards. Your light will continue to guide us.**