Edith L Torrence Gaddis

With love for a life beautifully lived, we announce the peaceful passing of Edith Leola Torrence Gaddis on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, in Destin, Florida. She departed this world surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy of strength, grace, and love.

Edith was born on June 11, 1940, in the quiet town of Warrenton, Georgia, to devoted parents Reverend Willie James Torrence and Leola Collins Torrence. Nestled just east of Atlanta, Warrenton was a small, close-knit community, rich in family values and rooted in hard work. Her grandfather, Sam Collins, was a respected farmer whose tireless work and deep devotion to family laid a foundation of resilience and love—a legacy that would echo through generations.

From an early age, Edith embodied the fortitude and spirit of those who came before her. As a teenager with a heart full of dreams and ambition, she left behind the red clay hills of Warren County at just 17 years old, seeking new adventures in the vibrant energy of Miami, Florida—"The Magic City." There, she would spend over five decades building a life filled with love, laughter, and purpose. In Miami, Edith welcomed her beloved daughter, Avis Leona Torrence, in 1959, and many years later, her cherished son, Rakeem Torrence Amerson, in 1996. She forged many bonds and friendships over the years. In 2010, Edith moved to Lake City, Florida, where she met and married the love of her later life, Joe Gaddis. Their union brought her great happiness and companionship until his passing in November 2020. A woman of steadfast faith, Edith became a dedicated member of Northside Church of Christ in Lake City, where she deepened her relationship with God and found community among fellow believers.

Edith will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Avis Torrence Deliford-Major (Louis) of Destin, Florida; her son, Rakeem Torrence Amerson, Sr. (Timera) of Lake City, Florida; and her treasured grandchildren: LaTavia Deliford of Destin, Florida, Nanami Almira Pate, Rakeem Torrence Amerson, Jr., and Nazira Melody Amerson, all of Lake City, Florida. She also leaves behind her great-grandson Amaree Noel Claridy of Destin, Florida, along with her beloved sisters: Rebie Torrence Fitzpatrick (Homer) and Jessie Mae Thomas Moore (Ellis) of Miami, Florida, and Mary Magdalene Thomas of Norwood, Georgia. Her legacy continues through a large and loving extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters Maggie Moss Green (Lucious) and Ruthie Mae Torrence Evans (Judge); her brothers Sammie Moss (Bonnie) and Willie James Torrence, Jr. (Ophelia); and many beloved nieces and nephews who welcomed her home with open arms.

To know Edith was to know someone who shined unapologetically. Her smile could light up a room, her laughter was joy in its purest form, and her sense of style—bold, elegant, and always unique—was a reflection of her vibrant spirit. She was true to herself in every way, a rare soul who never conformed but always inspired. In a world where many strive to blend in, she stood out with grace and dignity.

The family would like to express heartfelt thanks for your prayers, condolences, and kind words during this time of sorrow. Your continued support means more than words can convey.

In honor of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, we invite you to carry her spirit forward—by loving without conditions, living with authenticity, and remembering that love, when given freely and fully, is everlasting.