John Wayne Edwards

John Wayne Edwards was born on September 10, 1961, in Colleton County, South Carolina. He was the sixth child of the late Leroy and Daisy Mae (Brothers) Edwards. On October 24, 2025, Wayne peacefully departed this life in Sierra Vista, Arizona.

Wayne grew up in a close-knit family home off Highway 61, where he shared a joyful childhood with his brothers and sisters. He loved working alongside his father, tending to the crops and animals on their small country farm. Those early years taught him the value of hard work, humility and family — lessons he carried with him throughout his life.

A proud graduate of Walterboro High School, Class of 1979, Wayne later attended Shaw University before beginning his career. He was a man of many talents — over the years, he worked as produce manager, landscaper, and prep cook, always giving his best in every role. However, his greatest fulfillment came from his longtime work in construction, where he built a successful career as a skilled and dedicated pipelayer. Known for his strong work ethic, steady hands, and pride in a job well done, Wayne earned the respect and friendship of everyone he worked alongside.

In addition to his construction career, Wayne also made his mark in the food service industry when relocating to Sierra Vista, Arizona. He most recently served as a shift leader at the DFAC in Fort Huachuca, Arizona. He was admired for his dependability, kindness, and the way he treated his team like family. 

On April 5, 1990, Wayne married Andrea Gilliard of Green Pond, South Carolina. From their union came two wonderful children — Johnathan and Jessica — who were the pride and joy of his life.

Wayne was known for his selfishness, generous heart and willingness to help others. He had a quiet strength and a natural kindness that drew people to him. Whether lending a hand on the job, helping a friend in need, or giving his very last to make sure his children had what they needed, Wayne lived a life rooted in love and compassion. His humor, warmth, and faith carried him through life’s ups and downs, and his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his two children, Johnathan Edwards (Lakishia) of Green Pond, South Carolina, and Jessica Williams (Raymond) of Los Angeles, California; two brothers, Larry Edwards and Joseph Edwards (Florrie), both of Walterboro, South Carolina; three sisters, Hilda Sanders (Leroy) of Greenville, South Carolina, Sarah Edwards of Summerville, South Carolina, and Cathy Edwards of Summerville, South Carolina; one granddaughter Raegan Williams, and three bonus grandchildren Damon, Amyah and Nizhoni; one mother-in-law, Queen Gilliard; two aunts Bernita Beal of Brooklyn, New York and, Beverly Edwards of Cottageville, South Carolina; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who loved him dearly.

Wayne was preceded in death by his loving wife, Andrea Edwards; his parents, Leroy and Daisy Mae Edwards; his oldest brother, Anthony Edwards and father-in-law, Pastor Arthur Gilliard.

Though Wayne’s earthly journey has ended, his spirit, laughter, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

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