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Junius Edwards Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Junius Edwards
Sponsored by The Edwards Family.
Jenny Rushton
April 23, 2019
Dear Inge and Family,
I worked at Norman, Craig and Kummel, and then with Junius when he started his own advertising agency in the 1960s. I was his secretary, assistant, then account manager for about seven years. I enjoyed working with Junius so much and felt proud when his agency grew. I would like to contact Inge, if she still remembers me.
Mel Richard's
April 19, 2019
Dear Inge and family;
I was a young copywriter in the early 70's. I worked with Junius on accounts such as Sonneman lamps and Ligget & Myers..."This is L&M Superbad. " I credit him with much of my success in advertising over the years. Still miss him after all these years.
Claudia Brooks
February 10, 2016
Hi. I am a 11th grader at Franklinton High School. We are doing a short story project and I chose "Liars Don't Qualify". One of the questions I have on my Author Information Form is "Influences (person, place, event, etc.):" I have looked at multiple websites and I have not found anything yet; I was wondering if you knew what influenced him to become a writer. Thanks.
P.S. I send my condolences to all of the Edwards family.
Yemisi Jimoh
July 27, 2008
Dear Edwards Family,
Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss. Junius Edwards was an important figure in African American literary culture. Prior to reading the notice of his passing this past March, I had been attempting to contact him about reprinting his short story "Liars Don't Qualify" but was unable to locate him. I was shocked and saddened to find that I would not have an opportunity to communicate with him personally.
I know this is a difficult time for your family, but I am still interested in reprinting his story in my forthcoming book on war, citizenship, and patriotism in African American literature. The book is under contract to be published by Rutgers University Press in 2009 and the title is /War, Freedom, Citizenship, and Patriotism/: /An Anthology of African American Writings/.
Again, please convey my condolences and blessings to the entire Edwards family.
A Yemisi Jimoh, PhD
Professor
W.E.B. Du Bois Department of Afro-American Studies
University of Massachusetts
Trina Matthews
April 20, 2008
Dear Inger and family,
So sorry to hear about your loss. Though I only saw you and him once a couple of years ago, he used to call Bejay often here on the phone. Bejay loved him very much and often spoke about him. He was a very dear man. A very intelligent, perceptive and accomplished person.
I admired what loving, loyal and long care you, Inger, gave him in the final years. I took care of my mom for many years before her passing. I know what a difficult job it is.
Bejay wished he could have spent more time with him. But I am sure it is not the last time Junius and Bejay and all of you will see each other. Death is not the end but a passing from one place to another. Junius will create a new airlines we will all get to ride on and enjoy again.
With deepest sympathy and love,
Frank Mandosa
April 13, 2008
I am a high school English teacher in Massachusetts and was prepared to teach the short story "Mother Dear and Daddy" tomorrow, April 14th. I googled Junius's name for biographical information and was stunned to see that he has recently passed. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. His writing was heartfelt and moving.
Rip Hudson
April 7, 2008
Inger,
I sincerely hope that the pleasant memories you cherish of the many years you and Junius spent together will help to comfort you in the immediate days ahead. You will always be in my thoughts.
Tina Glick and Jessica Shapiro
April 5, 2008
Mrs. Edwards,
My deepest sympathy for you. I only had the honor of sharing a few weeks of Mr. Edwards life. There are some people I meet that touch the "this is a special person" note in me. Your husband was one of those people, and you are too.
Fondly,
Tina
Mrs. Edwards and family,
Our deepest sympathy.
Myles Striar
April 4, 2008
I met Junius in Oslo, Norway, half a century ago, right after we'd both been discharged from the US Army and just before I met Lise, to whom I have been married for nearly forty-eight years. We met Inger shortly afterward.
Junius and I had much to talk about, including the army, writing and Norwegian girls. We swapped a lot of stories.
During the next few years we both married and moved back to the US. We and our children visited their family in White Plains, Manhattan and Vermont, and they visited us in Boston.
Some time after that we lost contact, but I often thought about Junius' kindness, his wisdom and his humor, and I have been telling his stories for years. I hope to have a chance to tell some of them to his family. I miss him more than ever.
Shea Sullivan
April 1, 2008
To the Edwards Family:
Please accept my deepest sympathy on your loss.
What a talented, accomplished and beautiful person! It must have been amazing to share your life with him. His spirit lives on in you.
Donnadale Crider
April 1, 2008
Dear Aunt Inger, Ellen, Eric, and Tony,
On behalf of myself and my family , I am extending our most heartfelt condolences to you.
Uncle Junius achieved alot during his lifetime, but I believe that one of his greatest achievements was his ability to take the time to connect with his brother George and to establish the association between our families. I can remember my Uncle as someone I knew who had a good sense of humor and a memorable laugh, a tall stature and an uncanny resemblance to my dad. Despite remarkable odds dealt to them during childhood, and indifferent to the vast geographical distances that were between them, they somehow kept track of one another. In a time frame devoid of the ease of communications that we enjoy today, and without a strong family infrastructure, when you stop to think about it, this took some effort. If it were not for their innate need to bond, and for the hours of traveling we did as families to see one another, I would not be able to submit this entry as a memory of my Uncle, but only as a condolence to his passing on. Thank you, Uncle Junius, you and my father did not let the odds work against you. Because of your personal efforts, our families can come together and share memories of you.
I appreciate the significance of this, and I remember the effort it took when Uncle Junius came when they last saw one another. That level of resolve is what will stay with me. That is a true legacy. Love, Bibbie and family.
Valerie Markwood
April 1, 2008
Recently, my long-time colleague and dear friend, who Jamaican, and I were talking about the race issues she is still aware of in the workplace. In the course of our discussion, I described meeting Junius in 1964, on his first day as a fellow “cub” copywriter at Norman Craig & Kummel. I said that Junius was, I believe , the only person of color at the agency at that time and, on paper, had the potential of perhaps not fitting in. I described him as being very tall and imposing. Handsome. Happy. Warm. Very, very dark. Almost exotic looking. Different. The reality was that I, and everyone else, immediately felt completely comfortable with Junius, as with an old friend. I remember being charmed by his infectious, open smile and natural air of confidence and ease. After so recently having seen that endearing smile in my heart and mind’s eye, and though I left the agency not too long after Junius’ arrival, I was stunned and saddened to read of his passing and at such a relatively young age. I was, though, comforted to learn that he had enjoyed a successful, productive and happy life both personally and professionally. Please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of a man who gave me lasting happy memories as I’m sure he did so for many others. Junius, you live on!”
I am so sorry.
www.valeriemarkwood.com
Arone
March 31, 2008
Dear Grandpa,
Towards the end of your life I had the extreme pleasure of getting to know you as more than just my grandfather. I really thought of you as my friend. When I would come up to 7N I would ring the doorbell. Grandma would usually open the door with her vibrant smile that said" Hey come on in." I would give her a hug and kiss and return the greeting. If either Tony or Eric or Ellen were there i would do the same. Then there was you sitting on your side of the couch either reading a newspaper or watching TV. I would walk over, shake your hand and kiss your cheek "how are you grandpa?" "Fine thanks" you would reply everytime without fail. I want to thank you for sharing your wisdom with me. You have inspired many a person. I love you grandpa.
Orrvar Dalby
March 31, 2008
Kjære Inger, Eric, Tony and Ellen.
We have just got the sad message of Junius' death. Please receive our condolences.
Even if this is a time of sadness, it is also for us a time for recalling good memories of Junius and the rest of you visiting our family in Norway many, many years ago.
We are thinking of you .
Line Dalby
Orrvar Dalby and family
Mai-Britt Dalby Eng and family
Michael Sparkman
March 31, 2008
Dear Edwards Family -
By chance this AM, I read the obituary for Junius. Being a Southern white guy - and embarrassed lately almost to the point of humiliation at the actions and reactions by many of my white brethren - it seems in reading it that Junius was a light in America's still dark denial about its history of racism.
I applaud Junius' life as a writer, and his valiant struggles to
help lead America out of its dark past. I my own way, I long ago have joined Junius, as have a significant number of other white Americans, and you - his family - in gently, yet diligently, urging Americans to come to terms with its dark past.
Junius died peacefully at home, as he well deserved. May you remember this great American for what he brought to our common table, and may you have peace in his passing from this life into the next, as hopefully, you carry on the legacy that Junius has left to you. And from his picture, I guess I don’t have to remind you to always remember Junius' great smile.
Wishing you all peace -
Tom Ekeheien
March 31, 2008
Kjære Inger,
Dear Tony, Eric, Ellen and your children,
Våre dypest følte kondolanser til dere alle ved Junius' bortgang.
Our deepest condolences to all of you for the loss of Junius.
Med hilsen Berit E. Clausen og Tom Ekeheien
Emmerson Edwards
March 31, 2008
My heartfelt condolences to Aunt Inger and all of our cousins on behalf of my family in Texas.
I was inspired by Uncle Junius's writings and his many accomplishments. I enjoyed telling stories about my Uncle's life, as I traveled the world. My memories of Junius have always been full of the brilliance of his personality and character. He was a very special man, who made life work in his favor.
I want to extend my condolences and express my profound sadness regarding the loss of my beloved uncle. Please accept my prayers and sympathy to each of you on behalf of my family members. We all are comforted in knowing that Uncle Junius is with his brother - my father.
Find comfort in your family members and strength in the message of prayer.
Happily married for 50 years!
March 30, 2008
Inger and Junius Edwards wedding (Oslo, 1958)
March 30, 2008
Jon Dalby
March 30, 2008
Kjære Inger,
Dear Tony, Eric, Ellen and your children,
Våre dypest følte kondolanser til dere alle ved Junius' bortgang.
Our deepest condolences to all of you for the loss of Junius.
It felt good to read the nice words in New York Times.
Being his distant relatives-in-law in Norway we had the pleasure of meeting Junius some decennia back in time. The impression of a cheerful and energetic person is still vividly present in our minds. We cherish these memories very much. We also want to express our gratitude and high esteem for his touching novel If We Must Die.
Our deepest condolences to all of you for the loss of Junius. Still, however, we feel comforted by the words Inger shared with us when our own father passed away some years ago: We never really lose the ones we love.
Erna Dalby
Jon Dalby and family"
Alphe'
March 30, 2008
Dear Mrs. Edwards, Tony, Ellen and Family:
Please accept my deepest condolences for Mr. Edwards. I know oh so well the pain and loneliness that losing a part of your life brings.
If I can be of assistance in any way, please let me know. I send my love, support and best wishes during this most rendering of times.
Your friend and neighbor,
Carole Kenyon
March 30, 2008
Dear Edwards Family,
I was saddened to read about your husband and father's passing.
For many years, I taught both English and U. S. history in a very white New Jersey suburb. To bring home the full impact of Jim Crow to my classes, I would assign "If We Must Die" (the excerpt about attempting to register to vote), without telling them to read the author's bio first.
Invariably, they were stunned to learn that he was a black man, they had so completely identified with the protagonist. It was the beginning - I could hope - of an important learning process for them. So I will always remember his talent as a writer and as a messenger of truth.
Sincerely,
Ms. Liz Goodrum
March 30, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
- Robert Haydon Jones
March 29, 2008
Junius and I shared an office as copywriters for Ogilvy In 1961.
He seemed to savor every minute of every day -- an inate wisdom I try to remember daily. He was a valiant man--and his smile could light up the room! He was good with the words too but he never let success bend him. We had a lot of fun!
Martin Rose
March 29, 2008
We have lost a great Friend and will miss him. Junius was always there for us and we will remember the nice times we spent together.
Gary Clare
March 29, 2008
My heart goes out the Edwards' family at this sad moment in time. I'm a friend of Tony Edwards, i never meet his father but knowing Tony i can see he embodied the same spirit. Im sorry i did not get the chance to meet him, he did some Great things for the community. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Peace and Love
Paula Collins
March 29, 2008
Mamma, Ellen, Eric and Tony, if there is anything I can do to be of comfort to you at this time or happier times, please do not hesitate to call on me. You are a wonderful family and I feel very blessed to know you.
Roy Eaton
March 28, 2008
Dear Edwards Family,
Though Junius and I were never close friends, I'm sure he was aware of me, as I was of him. I sort of broke the color barrier in general market advertising when I started at Y&R in 1955. It was a long time after that before other agencies did the same. It gave me a great sense of joy to see Junius enter the field. His brilliance cut through the prejudice that still tarnishes the industry. I applaud the obvious success his life produced. I know it will be an inspiration to future generations. Please let me know if there will be a memorial service. I would like to attend.
Herve' Jean-Baptiste
March 28, 2008
My deepest and sincerest condolences to the Edwards family.
Your father was truly a special person. I wish I had known him personally. However in knowing Tony and Ellen I feel that in some small measure I do. That is a legacy of which to be proud.
May Mr. Edwards you rest in peace, and may the family have nothing but the fondest of memories.
bunnie and pavia Edwards
March 28, 2008
I am truly sadden to hear of my uncle's passing. I wish, over all these precious years, that I had the opportunity to get to know him. With all that he accomplished and worked hard for during his life time, I pray that you keep his spirit alive and proudly speak of him. Always keep in mind that, although his life has ended, your love for him will always be there and continue to grow. Be comforted that he is now embraced by God and he will look over you. Let me know if you need anything... In sympathy..
Charmaine Grays
March 28, 2008
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead. I'm a friend of Mr. Edwards' nephew, George and though I never met Mr Junius personally, I heard many great things about him and his numerous accomplishments. I'm sorry I never got a chance to meet such a great man. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Gregory Lewis
March 28, 2008
With profound sadness I salute my dear freind JJ.
I had the great pleasure of working with JJ on his 'entrepreneurial endeavors in the health, publishing, and airline industries'.
What a brilliant man! Such a sharp mind. Thoughtful and generous. A real freind.
JJ truly was 'a wonderful and inspiring man'.
To dear Inger, JJ was alway's there for me when I called on him - please know that Victoria and I are always there for you.
Inger, please accept my heartfelt sadness and condolences to you and your family.
Love
Gregory Lewis
Walter and Alice Beattie
March 28, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Inger and with Ellen, Eric, and Tony. Walt and I have such good memories of the times we spent with the Edwards family over the many, many years we have known you all.
Ellen Edwards
March 28, 2008
Written on March 16, 2008.
POEM TO MY FATHER
My father is, the greatest man I know
He taught me to march into life, on my own
I discovered the world by his doing
Made me see things through another light just by going
He never told me I couldn’t do something because I was a girl
He’d always say “you’re the man”, give it a whirl
So I never really ended up with any doubts about myself
Even while going through a divorce, my life on hold upon a shelf
The future always looks bright through his eyes
Everything was possible, and we all know he always tries
To do everything he can for us all, for our futures
So that maybe we’d have it easy, no ruptures
He is always able, to figure things out
Whenever we had a problem, we’d just give him a shout
His advice is always an enlightenment, and always very welcome
So I never had any doubt, on who I’d become
His world revolves around ours, our lives so intertwined
He’s that important link, that makes me feel just fine
As our many projects, are due to come about
We would need his outlook and guidance, of this there is no doubt
So we need him here beside us, to enjoy this as we will
His bright outlook, great humor, his smile and skill
Who better with this to share
Than the one who got you there
But now he is not well, and we are all so worried
We try to help as we can, get him to move so he’ll hurry
To turn around this situation, as it doesn’t have to be
With Mama’s help it is possible, I wish that he could see
It’s taking his life over, making the person we know disappear
I don’t like this thought, the one that brings us much fear
Our father, always so present, to guide our every move
Now we’re all in our 40’s and would rather guide HIS every move!
How wonderful it would be, to share our daily lives with him here
To repay him for all he’s done for us, and not live in this fear
Of losing him one day, to this awful disease
Which has taken him over, leaving him and us bereaved
For we love this wonderful father, more than my silly words can say
Our only regrets are, that we can’t have our way
If we could, things would be different, much more different you see
We’d all be sitting at our terrace café, maybe sipping tea!
Just enjoying each others company, laughing it up I’m sure
Because no money can buy that, no fortune, no lure
So as I look forward to that day, when my wish will come true
I hope you know in your heart that WE LOVE YOU.
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