Born and raised in Mt. Airy, NC, Virgil graduated from Mt. Airy HS with a concentration in shop and construction, and he used those skills throughout his life. After high school, he joined the US Navy; during his four years of service, he studied electronics and crossed the Pacific four times. Virgil then studied at Campbell College, NC State, and San Francisco State, obtaining a Master's degree in math education. He eventually moved to Sacramento, CA, where he taught for 17 years at middle and high schools.
After relocating with his wife, Deidre, and son, James, to New Bern in 1980 to be near his parents, Ed and Josie Edwards (deceased), Virgil celebrated the birth of his daughter, Serena. He started Edwards Video Productions in 1983, pioneering commercial video production in Eastern NC. Eventually, his wife and children were involved in operating the business. He branched out to home movie and video conversions, converting old film to VHS and later to DVD, staying active in his business until 2012. He always gave his customers something a little extra to make their videos extra special to them.
He was a lifetime member of the Elks, a long-time member of the New Bern Chamber of Commerce, a Paul Harris Fellow with the New Bern Rotary, and an active member of First Baptist Church since 1980.
The love and accomplishment of his life was his family. He instilled good values in his children: doing one’s best, love of learning, simple down-to-earth prayers, and a can-do spirit. He kept his grandpa’s artificial leg as a reminder that if his grandpa could raise six children on a wooden leg, then he, too, could press on with whatever problems life presented.
Virgil could always find humor in whatever the circumstance or conversation. Even when he was confined to bed, those who were fortunate to be around him were left laughing. He was always happy to share his life experience and wisdom with whomever would benefit. It was important to him to help others improve their lot in life wherever possible.
Special thanks are given to Dr. Joseph Overby, to 3HC Hospice nurses and aides who provided opportunities for laughter in addition to great care, and to his other caregivers who provided invaluable support. Their kind and loving care made this final journey so much easier for the entire family.
His laughter, wisdom, and love will be missed by all including his wife of 41 years, Deidre Edwards; son James Edwards; daughter Serena Edwards; grandchildren Katy and Sam Edwards; aunt Velma Simmons; and several cousins in Mt. Airy, NC.
The family will receive friends from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm on Thursday, May 24, 2018, at First Baptist Church, followed by a memorial service with Dr. Richard Seagle officiating.
Memorial donations may be made to The Rotary Club of New Bern Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 818, New Bern, NC 28563-0818.
Arrangements are by Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory.
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