Dale "Ed" Edward Sowards

Ed, as he was known by most, was born in Barboursville, WV and lived a life devoted to service, to his nation, his community, and his family. He spent more than 30 years in the U.S. Navy, with numerous deployments, including a tour on the coast of the Republic of Vietnam and off the coast of Cuba during the Missile Crisis in 1962. He retired as a Senior Chief Petty Officer.

An exceptional shot, Ed was recruited by the DC Metropolitan Police force. While serving the city, he took classes at American University, graduating cum laude with a degree in the Administration of Criminal Justice. With his degree, he joined the U.S. Secret Service and protected the presidents from Nixon to H. W. Bush, and leading the protective services for Pope John Paul II.

Ed was a longtime member of Grace Memorial Church for whom he served as an elder. From cutting the grass to shoveling the snow, he was an indispensable member of the congregation. He looked after them as if they were his own flock, cutting firewood, repairing roofs, and much more.

Along with JoAnn, Ed raised two boys to manhood and set them up for success, personally and professionally. He was always there for little league games and scouting, and ready to fix a transmission or teach them about farming or hunting. He helped JoAnn realize her dreams of seeing England and touring the holy land, and even let her bring her cats on the extended trips they took in their camper.

Ed was an exceptional man who started with little and … He is survived by his son Jeff and husband Michael, and son David, his wife Rachel and their daughter Alice Wilson, as well as brothers, sister and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A visitation for Ed will be held Monday, February 3, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:45 AM at Mullins & Thompson Funeral Service, 1621 Emancipation Hwy, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401. Following the visitation will be a graveside service at 1:00 PM at Quantico National Cemetery, 18424 Joplin Road, Triangle, VA 22172.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be given to the Fredericksburg Food Bank or your local animal shelter.