Edgar "Ed" Brown DeFore Sr.

Ed was born in Macon, Georgia on January 18, 1932, to Bradley Brown DeFore Sr. and Emla Riggins DeFore. A graduate of Lanier High School and former baseball player for a Cardinal’s minor league farm team, Ed later became the longest-serving political official in the state of Georgia, dedicating 45 years as a Macon city councilman turned Macon-Bibb commissioner, a Bibb County School board member, Macon Water Authority board member. He not only served on the board of the Macon Sports Hall of Fame, but was also an inductee. Ed was a member of the Church of Latter-day Saints in Macon. He was a Mason for over 50 years and was also a Shriner. He was known as a man of daily prayer and deep faith, who loved the Lord deeply.

Ed’s commitment to helping people in his community extended into his passion for youth sports and recreation. He played an instrumental role in the expansion of ballparks and recreational facilities throughout Macon, investing in the children and families of the city he loved so much. Ed was the founder of Miracle Field for Kids with Miracle League. He also brought the Soap Box Derby back to Macon in the late 80s and early 90s, inspiring generations. His motto, “T-R-Y,” “Try, Try, Try,” meant he would do whatever it took to help others, always seeking solutions for those in need. Macon’s citizens knew him to be a man who followed through and named the sports complex at Westside High School after him, the Ed DeFore Sports Complex.

Ed is preceded in death by the love of his life for 75 years, Pat DeFore; his daughter, Robin DeFore; granddaughter, April Elliott; and brothers, Bradley DeFore Jr. and Joe DeFore.

He is survived by his children, Ed DeFore Jr. (Kay) and Natalie DeFore (Stacey); grandchildren Ed McKinnon (Cindy), Matt DeFore (Shaye), Christen Elliott, Jimmy DeFore (Lisa), Leah DeFore Rucker, Richie Elliott (Carrie), and Amber Olin. He was blessed with 10 beautiful great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Ed’s legacy is one of steadfast love, enduring faith, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. Ed raised Purple Martins so whenever you catch sight of one soaring above the Heart of Georgia, may it serve as a gentle reminder that Commissioner Ed’s spirit is still watching over the city he loved and served so faithfully.

A Memorial Service to commemorate the lives of Edgar Brown DeFore, Sr. and his wife, Pat DeFore, will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026 @ 11:00 A.M. @ The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Church, 1624 Williamson Road, Macon GA 31206 with Bishop Cameron Bardsley and Elder Jim Landreau officiating.

Snow's at Macon Memorial Park has charge of arrangements.