Washington's Funeral Home

Brother Johnnie E. Edwards, 75, peacefully departed this life on October 31, 2013 at the Colleton Regional Medical Center in Walterboro, SC after a lengthy illness. He was born on September 6, 1938 in Varnville, SC to the late Alex and Carrie (Wright) Edwards.

Johnnie grew up in Varnville. He graduated from North District Training School in 1954. After high school, he joined and faithfully served his country in the United States Army as a paratrooper in the 82^nd Airborne Division before his Honorable Discharge in 1962.

After his discharge from the Army, Johnnie moved to New Jersey where he worked for Commerce Clearing House, Inc. in Clark, NJ for 31 years. After beginning his career as a machinist, he eventually rose to the management position of Book Bindery Supervisor in 1985, holding that position until his retirement in 1996.

In 1966, Johnnie married the love of his life, Nancy Spann in Elizabeth, NJ.  They were happily married for 47 years, blessed with two wonderful sons. Baptized at a young age, Johnnie practiced his faith as a member of 2^nd Baptist Church of Rahway, NJ before returning to Varnville in 1994 and re-joining the New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Varnville, SC.

A strong family man and supporter of his community, Johnnie was always active. While in New Jersey, he continued his passion for baseball by coaching Little League baseball for many years. His teams won numerous championships while teaching the game he loved to his sons and the kids who played on their teams. Upon returning to Varnville, he became a fixture and strong advocate for the Hampton County Farmers’ Market. The market was certainly one of his passions late in life. It was even more special when his two grandsons were his best employees. Throughout his entire life, fishing was a favorite pastime with his family and friends.

Johnnie was preceded in death by his loving parents, Alex and Carrie Edwards; and brothers, William, Leroy, Robert, and James Edwards.