

Ed was born on August 4, 1926 in Griffin, Georgia into a loving family whose practice of servitude to The Lord and commitment to one another was an unwavering way of life throughout his childhood. He attended Griffin High School, where he played football at three positions: punter, field goal kicker, and tight end. All through his life, he remained an avid football fan, whether high school, collegiate, or professional teams (GO DAWGS!).
In 1944, Ed enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he achieved Sharp Shooter and Machine Gun Specialist Military Qualifications and served in the Pacific Theater. After the war, he was honorably discharged and took the midnight train back home to Georgia, with a military paycheck of $239.82 in his pocket.
Once home, Ed met the love of his life, Lillian “Tippy” Richard, and they were married on April 18, 1948. They were married 77 years until Tippy’s death in October of 2025.
Ed lived a long and fruitful life marked by a tremendous work ethic, service to his country, and a loving dedication to faith and family. With a problem-solving nature, a quick wit, and a willingness to go the distance, Ed was able to tackle, kick aside, wrestle, conquer, or master practically any task that came his way. Whether repairing his John Deere tractor, or helping his beloved Tippy prepare a silver platter of delicate hors d’oeuvres, he was always up for the challenge.
Our hearts are heavy with his passing, but we rejoice in knowing that he has been welcomed home with these words: “Well done, thy good and faithful servant.”
Ed is survived by his three children Susan Greer-Mote, Peggy Greer Gibbons, and John Edward Greer; his two grandchildren Natalie Miller (Dave) and Stephen Gibbons (Emily); his five great-grandchildren Will, Amelia, Joseph, Lara, and Luka; and by many loving nieces and nephews throughout Georgia, North Carolina, and Texas.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Lillian “Tippy” Greer; his parents Zackie and Emmett Greer; his brother Eugene Greer; his sisters Virginia and Mary Ann; his son-in-law Steve Gibbons; along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins who were a vital part of his upbringing. Ed’s wishes were that his body be donated to Emory University Medical Center.
Ed’s Celebration of Life, both visitation and service, will be on Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at North Star Church, 3413 Blue Springs Rd, Kennesaw, GA. The family will be receiving friends at 10:00 AM, and begin the Life Celebration at 11:00 AM.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Ed’s name to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or Georgia Sherriff’s Boys Ranch in Hahira, Georgia.
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