ames LeFevre Edwards (Jim), 91, of St. Petersburg, Florida passed to his reward on Sunday, October 30, 2016 at the C.W. Bill Young VA Medical Center.
Early Life
Born in Germantown, Pennsylvania to Parke E., Sr. and Mabel M. LeFevre Edwards he was an inventor and entrepreneur from an early age. As a boy he hand sewed potpourri bags and filled with dried out pine needles from neighbors Christmas trees then sold door to door, as a teen he created his own company and sold his fly fishing lures. He spoke often of adventures with his lifelong friend Bill and fishing the Susquehanna River, collecting agate stones in the fields of Lancaster, Pennsylvania with his Dad.
Military History and Awards
Jim joined the Army on October 14, 1943 in New Cumberland, Pennsylvania at the age of 18. Corporal Edwards saw combat during the Battle of the Bulge, the Rhineland, and Central Europe with the “Golden Lions” of the 106th Infantry Regiment K Company. During World War II he was an automatic rifleman and an expert with the M1 carbine. At the time of his honorable discharge Corporal Edwards was eligible to wear the Purple Heart, Good Conduct Award, American Theatre Ribbon, European African Middle Eastern Theatre Ribbon with 3 Bronze Battle Stars, World War II Victory Medal and his combat infantry badge. Jim received his Purple Heart for the wounds he received during combat in Belgium on December 18, 1944. The Purple Heart was given to those who were either wounded or killed during combat.
Later Life
His unique experience in World War II was published in The Cub of the Golden Lion. Upon returning from war he graduated from the Wharton School of Business in Pennsylavania but his inventive spirit drew him from the corporate world to become a small business owner. He moved his family to Florida in 1964 where he owned and operated Bay Office Supply, The Consignment Center, and American Mold and Pattern. After divorcing in 1970 he took on raising his three daughters and son without hesitation.
“Kids, cats, and dogs” was his favorite expression to describe his home which was filled with rescue dogs and cats. His children, grandchildren, and newest great grandchild were his biggest joy in life and he was a generous and loving father. He was an excellent cook and welcomed friends and family to the dinner table. He had a filing cabinet overflowing with his many ideas and was always cooking up new projects. He obtained a patent for one of his many inventions Glare Guard. He was a past member of Maximo Presbyterian Church, Central Christian Church, Grand Master of The Rosicrucian Order (AMORC), and a Mason.
Family
He is survived by his children Lisa K. Kowenski (Jack), Cynthia A. Swain (Norm), Tiffany A. Edwards, George M. Edwards (Stephanie), grandchildren Alexa, Ashley, Carla, Jordan, Joshua, Justin, Marlin, Matthew, and great grandson Harry. He was predeceased by his parents and brother Parke E. Edwards, Jr.
Services
A graveside service to honor the life of Jim Edwards is scheduled for Tuesday, November 15, 2016 at 1:30 pm at Bay Pines National Cemetery. Guests planning on attending the service should arrive at 1:00 pm. Military honors will be provided by the United States Army and the American Legion Post 238 from Safety Harbor, Florida.
Special Acknowledgments
In lieu of flowers kindly consider a contribution in Jim’s memory to Disabled American Veterans, American Diabetes Association, or the charity of your choice.
Friends and family are invited to share a memory and sign his guestbook below.
Mr. Edwards was the only real “Dad” I knew. During our formative years, my sister Sarah and I spent more time with the Edwards’ than in our own house. He provided Nourishment, Security, Imagination, Humor, and Adventure. Because Mr. Edwards included me, I know many joys, such as building forts, camping out, puppy breath, weaning kittens, free range beach days, and fishing all night long. I especially hold in my heart his solemn grace when he served as Officiant for Jack and Lisa’s wedding. All my Love to dear Mr. Edwards and his beloved children.