Curtis Lee Edwards

Curtis Lee Edwards was born July 17, 1929. He was the fifth child born to Mr. and Mrs. Eddie Edwards. His parents and siblings all preceded him in death. Curtis was born in Las Cruces, New Mexico. He lost his mother at a very early age and he and his brothers traveled around with his father for a while. His older sister Orene in Los Angeles helped raised him. Curtis found the Lord at an early age and began his spiritual walk with Christ.

Curtis was a proud and ambitious young man. He entered the service in 1951 and participated in the Korean conflict. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant.

He met and married his first wife Alice and they enjoyed many happy years together. Alice preceded him in death.

Curtis joined the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) August 1957 He served the city of Los Angeles for 26 years. During this time, he obtained his Associate Arts Degree. He served in the LAPD at a time when there were few black officers. Curtis held his head high, overcame many obstacles, and retired in 1983 as a Lieutenant. Curtis was very proud to be a part of the LAPD. Through his service with the LAPD he helped pave the way for future generations.

Curtis enjoyed life; he enjoyed traveling, gardening and antique cars. He took pleasure in taking care of his two dogs and made a point to never miss a Dodger game.

In 1999, he married his teenage sweetheart Eloise Hart and they went to live in his home in Hemet, California. They enjoyed life by traveling around the world together, visiting family members and taking day trips.

Curtis joined Union Missionary Baptist Church (under the leadership of Rev. Milton Marshall Sr.) in 2000 and was appointed a deacon in 2003. He was a faithful deacon and was always concerned with the well being of the church. He attended church as often as his health allowed.

Curtis went from labor to reward Sunday morning, June 2, 2013. Curtis is survived by his loving wife Eloise Edwards, his children, Jacquelyn Johnson (Dallas) and Harry Hart Jr., grandchildren, Damon Hart (Leah) and Tara Lewis, six great-grandchildren, and a very special nephew James Gayles (Annette) and a host of nieces, nephews, friends and loved ones.

Entrusted to the care of McWane Family Funeral Home, inc., Hemet California, 951 658-9497