Albert Perry "Al" Edwards

1944 - 2024

Ledyard - Albert Perry "Al" Edwards of Ledyard, a caring and loving father and grandfather, passed away Monday, Jan. 1, 2024, after a brief illness, in Hartford.

Albert was born to Clarence and Hilda Edwards Feb. 20, 1944, in New London.

He grew up on Fishers Island, N.Y., forging lifelong friendships and developing a bond with the magical island that never left him.

Albert attended the Fishers Island School before moving to Maplewood, N.J. prior to his senior year. He graduated from Columbia High School in 1962.

Upon graduation, he joined the U.S. Navy. Al served aboard the aircraft carrier USS Kearsarge from 1963 through 1966. During his service, Al rubbed elbows with John Wayne, visited several exotic ports of call in the Pacific, and was part of the recovery team of Mercury astronaut Gordon Cooper and Faith 7.

After his honorable discharge from the Navy, Albert attended West Valley College in Chapman, Calif., before beginning the corporate portion of his life. Over the next four decades, Al worked for Fuller Brush, Triangle Wire & Cable and Foxwoods Resort Casino before retiring.

Al was predeceased by his parents; brothers, Clarence "Buddy" Edwards, Richard "Sonny" Edwards, Norman "Dink" Edwards; and a sister, Dorothy Calney.

He is survived by his son Matthew (Mary) Edwards of Fishers Island, N.Y.; his granddaughter Payton Edwards, of whom he was exceptionally proud; brother Ken Edwards; sister Grace Burr; and numerous nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews, all of whom he loved as if they were his own children.

Al had a soft spot for animals, including the many cats that were part of his life, but none more beloved than his grand dogs Winston and Wanda.

Albert was a lifelong fan of UConn athletics, especially the men's and women's basketball teams. The five national championships won by the men were especially rewarding to Al.

Al loved to golf and fish, both of which he claimed to be better at than he actually was. His basketball skills were exceptional, with Al insisting, well into his 40s, that he could still beat Matt one-on-one.

Albert had many, many friendships that he cherished, beginning with friends he made in childhood, while serving in the Navy and throughout his professional career. Al was an especially caring person, with nary a negative word to say about anyone, save for the occasional college basketball referee.

A celebration of Al's life will be held on Fishers Island in the spring. Memorial donations may be made in Al's remembrance to the Pat and Jim Calhoun Cardiology Center Fund or the Fishers Island Fire Department.