William L Edwards

William Lysander Edwards was born on January 12, 1948, in Charleston, South Carolina, to the late Estelle and William Edwards. He was the eldest of six children. Sandy, as he was affectionately called, was also known as “Big Red,” “Rooster” and “The Mayor of 131st Street.”

Sandy received his formal education in the Colleton County School District of South Carolina.

Sandy came to New York in the mid-sixties, where he met and married Mary “Betty” Elizabeth Fraser. During their seven-year union they became the proud parents of two sons, Marque Anthony, and Norman Alan.

Sandy held several jobs over the years, the last of which was his position at Beth Israel Medical Center, as a cook until his retirement. During his time at Beth Israel Medical Center, he earned his certification as a trained Pastry Chef.

Sandy was a jack of all trades, most notably for auto repairs, especially for his family and friends. He was very well known in his community, as they gave him the nickname “The Mayor of 131st Street.”

Sandy was well loved by his family and friends, known for his willingness to help others, his cooking skills, his lively personality, and candid sense of humor.

Sandy held his sisters dear to his heart and loved them dearly. Also held dear to his heart were his first cousins Cassie (deceased), Mildred and Alice; who he considered his sisters and affectionately named them “The Golden Girls.” Sandy also loved and treated his eldest niece Monique Edwards as his daughter. Sandy adored all his family members, especially his sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Sandy departed this life on Saturday, February 24, 2024, in Walterboro, South Carolina.

Sandy leaves to mourn his memories: Sons, Marque Anthony Edwards, New York, and Norman Alan Edwards, New Jersey. Daughter, Monique Edwards, Rockhill, SC. Siblings-Sisters: Earthalee Janice E. Campbell (Earl) Walterboro, SC; Lueann “Patsy” Hamilton (deceased); Saint Cecelia Bryant (Malachi) Greenpond, SC; Rosalyn E. Johnson (John) Walterboro, SC; and Delphine Bines (Kenneth) Woodbridge, VA; one half-brother Ernest ‘Unc’ Hamilton, New York. Seven grandchildren: Marque Jr, Demetrius, Touri, Aaron, Sidney, Hayden and Caleb. Eight great-grandchildren: Kristopher, Kristiana, Aerin, Hudson, Anaya, Demetrius Jr., Emory and Harper. Carol Lambert, longtime companion, and special friend. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and godchildren.

Special mention to Rosalyn Johnson, Earl Campbell, and Ernest Hamiton, whom all played a major part in supporting Sandy’s health care.

He is gone but never will be forgotten.

Lovingly submitted by the family.

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