“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:7-8
Reverend Edward Leon Baskerville was born on December 20, 1944, in South Hill, Virginia to the late Deacon Edward H. Baskerville and the late Deaconess Sally Marie Bugg Baskerville. At an early age, he was baptized at Gethsemane Baptist Church in South Hill, Virginia.
Edward completed his formal education at East End High School. He was a graduate of Virginia Union University, School of Theology. Before joining the Army, Edward worked as a farmer. After serving in the Army, he worked at several jobs including Allied Chemical, Firestone, and as a contractor.
Edward was married to Enid Hepburn and had two children, Erwin and Erika. He later married Jerlene Harris and they had a blended family of five children.
Later, Edward joined Second Baptist Church East End under the leadership of Reverend Preston T. Hayes, where he became an Associate Minister. He taught Sunday School and Bible Study. He enjoyed working with children, working with his hands, gardening, fishing, and cooking.
On Thursday, December 29, 2022, Reverend Edward L. Baskerville received his wings and went to be with his Heavenly Father. He is predeceased by his parents; brothers: Alvin, Larry, and Wayne; two brothers-in-law: Bob Fant and Jerry Cunningham; and a daughter-in-law: Stephanie Baskerville.
Left to cherish Edward's memory is his wife, Jerlene; five children: Ricky Harris, Erwin Baskerville, Tyrone Harris (Brenda), Erika Harrington, and Renita Harris Jordan; three siblings: Lucy Cunningham, Eva Jean Fant, and Shirley Goodman; and one sister-in-law: Bertha Baskerville. He is survived by his many grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
A visitation for Edward will be held Friday, January 13, 2023 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home, 2551 N. Armistead Avenue, Hampton, Virginia with a celebration of life service at 2:00 PM. An interment to follow the service at Parklawn Memorial Park.
