Rev. William A. Edwards

TRIBUTE TO REV. WILLIAM EDWARDS From Mamby Park Baptist Church --**--“Those that be planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing.” (Psalm 92:13-14, KJV) --**-- These words of the psalmist fitly describe Rev. William Edwards, a man of stature in the house of God and the Baptist fraternity. After a full pastoral ministry at the Bethel and Tarrant Baptist churches, followed by membership at Emanuel Baptist church, where he acted as interim pastor for approximately one year, he chose to spend his final years with us at Mamby Park. |¶| William and his wife, Fern, were received in the membership of the Mamby Park Baptist Church in September 2018, a church where his brother Joseph had pastored for 16 years up to the time of his death. Rev. William Edwards was in his nineties when he came to Mamby Park; and at that age, one might have expected him to just take a quiet seat in the church. But this was not the case with him. He became visible in the church from day one serving in the preaching and teaching ministries of the church, and later in the virtual prayer ministry. |¶| Rev. Edwards and wife, Fern, were regular in attendance at the 10:15 a.m. worship service on Sundays especially on second Sundays, thereby never missing the Lord’s Supper. He preached at Mamby Park church as late as July 2023, and persons never failed to express the blessings they received from the depth and profundity of his messages. He spoke as a person of authority in the Word, and his messages always had a teaching element. Even at a moment’s notice when called upon to deliver a message, his presentation was sound and impactful. |¶| He was regular and active at the 6:00 a.m. virtual prayer meetings Mondays to Saturdays each week, and again, persons were touched by his lucidity and depth of his prayers. The couple operated as a team in leading prayer meetings when either was assigned to lead a session, taking turns in scripture reading, prayer, and devotional thoughts, thereby bringing inspiration to all present. |¶| Though not attending regular meetings of the Brotherhood, he visited and gave advice. For example, he recommended that the shut-ins be brought into the sanctuary on designated Sundays, an advice which was readily accepted and acted upon. |¶| Rev. Edwards was a highly respected and treasured member of the Mamby Park congregation. He was warm, cheerful, pleasant, and exuded love at all times. Just seeing him in church was an inspiration to all because he symbolized a Christ-like and grand-fatherly posture. He was loved by all. As such, the church took delight in honoring him by initiating and leading the celebration of his 100th birthday in March 2024. The membership was thrilled to have this esteemed centenarian in its midst. |¶| He was physically present at church on the second Sunday of September, 2025 in good health and his usual cheerful self. God chose to call him home shortly after, leaving a legacy of love and good will behind. The church expresses sincere condolences to his loving and devoted wife, Fern, his children, and all other family members. |¶| Sleep on brother William. We love you well, but Jesus loves you best. You are now safely anchored in His eternal rest, as He promised. (Hebrew 4:3).

I feel so very blessed to have known this wonderful man of God, not just as a spiritual father, but as a friend. I met Pastor Eddie over 15 years ago at Emmanuel Baptist church. I remember the first time I sang and he sought me out to encourage me, saying in that deep voice of his "Sister Rosie you don't just sing, you minister". At the time I was very timid, and his encouragements meant a lot. Over the years, whenever we spoke, he would always enquire if I was still singing. |¶| He was never too busy to listen and to give good and godly counsel. He was stately but humble and approachable. I will miss his humour and his wisdom. He was small in statue but gigantic in impact, a living example of what it means to be sold out for Christ. His sermons were deep and soul stirring, and his life was one of integrity and authentic Christian living and dedication. He was a general in God's army - with a quiet but dignified presence and rectitude that commanded the highest respect. His legacy lives on. |¶| I pray that the God of all comfort will comfort his dear wife Sister Fern, his children and other family members and friends. Forever grateful.

My association with Rev. Edwards started in 2012 when he married my dear friend, Fern Anderson. We conversed on the phone for many years until I met him in person in 2018 while I was in Jamaica. Rev. became a close friend of my family until death. |¶| During the COVID-19 era my husband, Douglas started a Family Devotional Meeting every Sunday evening via Zoom. Rev. Edwards was a regular speaker on the platform. Everyone was intrigued on listening to this special person each time he presented the word. Age was only a number. He was forceful, strong and witty in his delivery. When the program came to an end, Rev. was very disappointed. He always told me how much he looked forward to joining us each week. |¶| Rev. Edwards fully devoted his life to the work and service of the Lord for all his life. He will be greatly missed. He has left behind a great legacy. |¶| I want to end this tribute by acknowledging his dear wife Fern who stood by her husband every step of the way until the very end. Fern, your reward is in heaven. Rest in peace Rev Edwards.

My condolences Sis. I pray the Lord comfort you and give you peace and strength in this difficult time.

We thank our God upon every remembrance of you (Phil. 1:3). The impact you had on our lives is greatly appreciated. Rest In Peace.

Our sympathy is with you and family at this time.....RIP beloved.

My Darling Husband was like the breath I breathe. He was my guide and protector. He was my all in all - emotional and spiritual. He was my friend. He is resting in Jesus. Until then.

Pastor Edwards, thank you for shining your light and being such a great example for so many. Thank you for the love you gave to Grandma Fern. Rest In Heavenly Peace.

Pastor Edwards, it was wonderful to see the love and joy both you and Aunt Fern brought to each other life through your union. Rest in the Lord.

You were a godly, peaceful, patient, and loving soul. You exemplified 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. I thank God for bringing you into our lives. Love always.

Pastor Eddie, thank you for loving my mother, Fern, your beloved. Through you, I learned how to love my own beloved. Rest in eternal peace.

A Tribute In Song - "Another Soldier's Coming Home" . . . . His back is bent and weary His voice is tired and low His sword is worn from battle And his steps have gotten slow But he used to walk on water Or it seemed that way to me I know he moved some mountains And never left his knees |¶| Strike up the band Assemble the choir Another soldier's coming home Another warrior hears the call He's waited for so long He'll battle no more He's won his wars Make sure heaven's table Has room for at least onе more Sing a welcome song Anothеr soldier's coming home |¶| He faced the winds of sorrow But his heart knew no retreat He walked in narrow places Knowing Christ knew no defeat But now his steps turn homeward So much closer to the prize He's sounding kind of homesick There's a longing in his eyes |¶| Strike up the band Assemble the choir Another soldier's coming home Another warrior hears the call He's waited for so long He'll battle no more He's won his wars Make sure heaven's table Has room for at least one more Sing a welcome song Another soldier's coming home |¶| Sing a welcome song (Sing a song) Another soldier's coming home .