Roy Earl Edwards Jr.

Roy E. Edwards, age 93, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2024 in Spokane Valley

WA.. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who leaves

behind a legacy of passion, adventure, and an excellent sense of humor.

Born in Vero Beach, Florida in 1931, Roy spent his life enamored by the culture and

traditions of the South. His love for Dixieland jazz, college football and everything

related to aviation defined his vibrant spirit and diverse interests. At 14, Roy “spotted”

planes for the local Air Force in Cocoa Beach, Fla, from the top of a palm tree. At age

15, he talked his way into the Army, and at age 16, he was sent home to finish high

school. At 18, he enlisted in the Air Force and found himself at the front lines of the

Korean War. He earned citations for acts of heroism under enemy fire.

Roy began his electronic engineering career with Pan Am upon his return home,

establishing radio communications in the Florida Keys. From there, he worked for

Collins Radio, and Martin-Marietta, chasing rockets before the inception of NASA. One

of the many highlights of his career was his experience with the Gemini program at

Cape Kennedy, where he became a key man on the launch team. His aerospace

adventures ended with supporting the Atlas and shuttle programs at Vandenberg AFB in

California.

In the 1970s, Roy followed his nature as a self-made man and bravely transitioned from

a secure career to establish his own successful insurance practice. Known for his

integrity and genuine care for his clients, many of whom became lifelong friends, Roy's

dedication and personable nature endeared him to all who knew him.

An avid aviator, Roy found joy in the skies and shared his passion by teaching his then

10-year old daughter how to fly and land his small Cessna plane. His adventurous spirit

extended beyond aviation to include hobbies such as skiing, golfing, driving fast sports

cars, and relishing a spicy barbecue. He cherished traveling to new destinations, always

eager to explore and discover new things.

Roy was not only a man of action but also a storyteller and historian at heart, captivating

listeners with tales from his rich and varied life experiences. His role as a teacher

extended beyond the skies, as he imparted wisdom and knowledge to those around

him.

In 1956, Roy married the love of his life, Carolyn Bowen, with whom he shared a deep

and enduring bond until her passing in 2021. Together, they built a family rooted in love,

respect, and cherished memories of exploring all of the diverse cultures in this country..

Roy is survived by his son, James Edwards; daughter, Alicia Edwards Burgett;

grandchildren, Leah Wilson and Isabella Marchionda, Sean and Evan Burgett;

daughter-in-law, Zoee Burgett; and great-grandchildren, Atticus, Phineas, and Delilah

Burgett. He was a pillar of quiet strength and love to his family and will be deeply

missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Roy’s adventurous spirit and renowned story-telling skills left a profound impression on

all who knew him, and he will live forever in our hearts.

To honor and celebrate Roy’s remarkable life, a gathering of family and friends will be

held on August 7th at 11 AM, at Thornhill Chapel, 1400 South Pines Road, Spokane

Valley. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to BoysTown.org