W. David Edwards

W. David (Dave) Edwards passed away on Feb. 7, 2024 after battling illnesses for several months. Born on his grandparents' farm on Feb. 2, 1931 in Andes, N.Y., he was the son of George and Henrietta (Howden) Edwards. He grew up In Delhi, N.Y. and graduated from Delaware Academy where he played violin and participated in cross country running, track and school plays. He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout and was active in 4H. He went on to graduate from what is now SUNY Broome Community College and later graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson College with a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering.
Dave married the love of his life, Elizabeth (Betty) Hanky, on Aug. 21,1955 in the Baptist Church at Ridgewood N.J. For over 63 years, their union bore witness to the joys and trials of life, bringing three children and spanning from New York to Florida and back again. Together, they were affectionately known as "the love birds," inseparable and perpetually hand-in-hand until Betty's passing in 2019.
In addition to being a dedicated husband and family man, Dave was a faithful man of God, serving his church as an Elder. His commitment extended beyond the church doors, manifesting in roles such as a Boy Scout leader, Village Board member, and member of Rotary International. He passionately engaged in numerous service projects, notably championing Shots for Tots.
Most of his career was devoted to working for Becton Dickinson/Bard Parker, a medical supply company. The family moved to Hancock, N.Y. in 1965 when the company opened a new plant there. Dave and Betty retired in 1990 and spent winters in Bonita Springs, FL, until they moved to Johnson City, N.Y. in late 2016, to live at the United Methodist Homes Hilltops Campus.
Dave, always ready with a "Greetings!", leaves behind cherished memories of the passions he shared with others, including hunting, fishing, bowling, golf, puzzles, and history from biographies to educating anyone who would listen on Upstate New York's Anti-Rent War. He also enjoyed musical theatre, especially Phantom of the Opera. Known for his meticulous nature, Dave diligently chronicled each day's highlights for most of his life in a journal.
Dave was predeceased by his parents, wife Betty, brother & sister-in-law Harold (Marty) Edwards, and brother-in-law John Jack. He is survived by his sister Sally Jack; children Dave Edwards, Bob (Sue Andel) Edwards, and daughter Debra Starnes; grandchildren and spouses Rosemary (Dave) Glanville, Monica (Marc) Ryan, George Edwards, Simcha Valeur, and Lily Starnes; great-grandchildren Clare Glanville and Max Ryan; and numerous extended family members.
A celebration of Dave's life will be held on Saturday, Feb. 17 at the Methodist Homes Hilltop Campus located at 286 Deyo Hill Rd, Johnson City, NY. Visitation time begins at 1:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 1:30 p.m. A private burial will be at the Sherburne West Hill Cemetery at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or a charity of your choice.