William McGinn "Bill" Edwards Jr.
William McGinn "Bill" Edwards Jr.
Obituary
Guest Book
William Edwards Obituary
August 16, 1948 – January 25, 2026
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved father, William McGinn Edwards Jr., lovingly known as Bill, whose life was defined by faith, love, service, and quiet strength.
Bill had a lifelong love for horses-from rodeos and riding in his younger years to shoeing and training Quarter horses. This passion was more than a hobby; it was a true calling. Another calling close to his heart was coaching football with GYB (Glenvar Youth Boosters) for 23 years. He deeply loved those kids, and many of them became family as we watched them grow up through the years.
Bill was a proud U.S. Army veteran who served his country with honor, a reflection of the values of duty and integrity he carried throughout his life.
He cherished time with family, fellowship at church, good food, and supporting local football. He often reminded his family, "The greatest gift you could ever give to your children is Christ Jesus," words that perfectly reflected the life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind.
Bill Edwards was preceded in death by his parents, William McGinn Edwards Sr. and Johnnie Rebecca Edwards; his beloved wife, Evelyn Edwards; and his daughter, Kelly Susan Kakouras.
Bill is survived by his children: Payton Randall; Candace and Brian Helms; Maggie and George Pippin; Angela Salyers; BJ Edwards; and Tommi Leigh Edwards. He is also survived by his granddaughters Rhiannon Salyers, Riley Salyers, and Baylee Salyers, as well as 14 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, with two more on the way.
We find comfort in knowing he is now reunited in Heaven with his wife Evelyn, his parents, and his daughter Kelly, until the day we meet again.
Service Information:
CommUnity Church
1923 East Main Street
Salem, Virginia 24153
Private service for immediate family: 1:00 p.m.
Service for family and friends: 2:00 p.m.
The service will be officiated by Bill's longtime pastor and dear friend, Dr. Tom McCracken.
We love you always, Dad.
1330 East Main Street, Salem, VA 24153-4414
People and places connected with William
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for William Edwards
Make a Donation
in William Edwards's name
How to support William's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor William Edwards's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored