Edwin "ED" Augustus Colby

Edwin “Ed” Augustus Colby, most recently of Ellicott City, Maryland passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at the age of 100, with family by his side. Having lived a full century, his life was marked by dedication, curiosity, humor, service, and a deep love for those around him.

Born in Boston, MA and raised in Somerville, MA, Ed was the cherished son of the late Lena M. and Edwin D. Colby. He was the devoted husband of the late Esther R. (Foster) Colby for an extraordinary 72 years. He cared for and loved Esther deeply, remaining steadfastly by her side until her passing in May 2025.

Ed was a World War II veteran, serving in the U.S. Coast Guard. He willingly enlisted, driven by a profound sense of duty to contribute his share. He navigated the waters of the Atlantic and also served at the Loran Unit 346 Base on Anguar Island in the South Pacific. His commitment extended beyond duty, finding fulfillment in service schools where he gleaned invaluable lessons in discipline and perseverance.

After leaving the service he became a proud graduate of Suffolk University and later Suffolk University Law School. He went on to build a distinguished career as an attorney with New England Telephone & Telegraph (now Verizon), where he served with integrity and professionalism for many years. He took great pride in his work and in contributing to an industry that he valued deeply.

Ed and Esther raised their family in Canton, MA, where he helped to create a home filled with love, music, laughter, and steady guidance. Later in life, he and Esther embraced retirement, spending cherished time together at their homes in Hyannis Port, MA and Clearwater, FL. Those years were a treasured season of their long and loving marriage.

Beyond his career, Ed was a man of many interests, especially music. He was a snare drummer in the Waltham American Legion Post 156 marching band, Waltham, MA, spending many weekends traveling across the country to appear in parades. Those years brought him immense joy, and his love of music remained with him throughout life.

Ed was also a proud member of the Masonic Norfolk Union Lodge AF&AM, Randolph, MA andAleppo Shriners, Wilmington, MA, and the Aleppo Shriners marching band where he embraced its spirit of fellowship, philanthropy and service. His involvement was an especially meaningful way for him to honor the memory of his daughter, Robin.

Above all, Ed cherished his family. He was a steady presence, a source of wisdom, encouragement, and laughter. He is lovingly remembered by his children, Sherrie E. Bak (Scottsdale, AZ). Edwin F. Colby (Georgetown, MA), Lynn E. McNeil (Ellicott City, MD) and Christine C. Payton (Hotchkiss, CO). He was predeceased by his beloved daughter, Robin L. Colby. He is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were his pride and joy.

Ed leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and curiosity that will continue to inspire all who knew him. To reach 100 years is extraordinary, to fill those years with such warmth, intellect, and joy is even more so.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ed’s memory may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children (Boston) at donate.shrinerschildrens.org or PO Box 1525, Ranson, WV 25438.