Edward Lenfesty Saunders Safford III

Obituary of Edward L. S. Safford III (1942–2025), Beloved Husband, Father, and Visionary Scientist

A Life of Dedication, Love, and Achievement

Early Years and Education

Edward Lenfesty Saunders Safford III was born on August 2nd, 1942, in El Paso, Texas. Raised in El Paso, he showed early leadership and academic promise. In high school, Edward was deeply involved in Army ROTC, serving as a full Colonel and Deputy Corps Commander, in charge of all high schools in the El Paso area. He was also an active member and Life Member of DeMolay, held a state office in a Christian Church youth organization, and participated in the chess club, science club, debate club, rifle and drill team. His academic achievements included winning the Naval Science Cruiser Award at the Texas State Science Fair, which gave him the opportunity to spend a week aboard a U.S. Navy Cruiser in San Diego. Outside of academics, Edward was also a talented musician, playing drums for three different dance bands.

After graduating with honors, Edward moved to Houston, Texas, where he attended Rice University and the University of Houston, earning his bachelor’s degree. It was during his time at Rice University that two pivotal events occurred: he met Susan Mercer, who would become his lifelong partner, and Rice University acquired its first computer, launching Edward’s lifelong passion for computing and technology.

A Lifelong Love Story

Edward and Susan’s relationship began with a blind date he had arranged for a dormitory friend at Rice, but upon meeting Susan, Edward knew immediately she was the one he wanted to marry. They were married on October 7th, 1962, in the Chapel at Rice University, just before astronaut Wally Schirra's press conference. Edward wrote that as they came out of the chapel, everyone cheered as press had gathered for the conference, so their wedding was celebrated on national television.

Academic and Professional Achievements

Edward earned his bachelor’s degree in mathematics and computer science from the University of Houston, followed by a master’s in engineering management and applied science from Southern Methodist University. His career was marked by significant contributions to major projects, including contracted studies for the Manned Orbiting Laboratory (Project MOL), a joint project of the U.S. Air Force and the National Reconnaissance Office, and software-intensive systems development for NASA.

In 1963, Edward founded his own software company in Houston during the early days of computing, writing custom software for retail and engineering firms. After closing the company in 1986, Edward and his family moved to Bedford, Texas, where he began a successful 24-year career at General Dynamics, later Lockheed Martin, as a software engineer. He held roles as Lead Engineer, Software Product Development Manager, and Core Deputy for Mission Software, retiring in 2011. Edward was very active with IEEE - Fort Worth, a network of engineering and STEM professionals whose core purpose is to foster technological innovation and excellence. He was a driving force for their flagship annual conference, MetroCon, serving for many years as chair and co-chairs for the various tracks. He was not only a distinguished man in his field, but also a guiding light whose wisdom, humility, and unwavering pursuit of knowledge inspired generations.

Community and Family Life

In retirement, he and Susan traveled the world, visiting Great Britain, China, Italy, Australia, Canada, and more. Yet, his favorite place was always home, sharing dinners and making memories with family and friends, especially his grandchildren.

Edward’s life was centered around his family. His 63-year marriage to Susan was filled with love and companionship. He was known for his intelligence, thoughtfulness, and unwavering support for his family, who knew him as dad, Poppy, or Honey. He was a rock and protector, always there to offer advice, encouragement, and comfort.

Edward’s legacy is not only in his professional accomplishments, but also in the love and wisdom he shared with his family and friends. He was passionate about art, especially impressionism, music, science, and maintaining connections with childhood friends. Above all, he cherished evenings spent with loved ones.

Survivors and Legacy

Edward is preceded in death by his parents, Edward L. S. Safford, Jr. and Thelma Inez Conn Safford, and his brother, Thomas Frederick Safford. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Susan Eileen Mercer Safford; his children, Edward L. S. Safford IV, Valerie L.S. Heilweil, Brandon J. Safford; daughter-in-law, Aimee Safford; and six grandchildren: Alexis C. Safford, Charles Louis Heilweil, Liberty L. Safford, Jack Brandon Edward Safford, Gwenmarie Thea Safford, and Tyler James Safford.

Service Information

Visitation and Service will be held at 12:30 PM on October 28th, 2025, at Bluebonnet Funeral Home. Graveside service to follow. To leave an online condolence to the family, please visit BluebonnetHills.com.