Jonas David Edwards

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jonas David Edwards on August 27, 2024, at the age of 82. David was selfless, and his life was a testament to the impact one person can make through acts of kindness and service. The countless lives he touched bear witness to his generosity, skill, and servant’s heart.

For over 45 years, David dedicated himself to serving in the Lions Club, an organization that assists needy and visually impaired individuals. Throughout his remarkable tenure, he held various leadership roles, including two-time District Governor of North Carolina. He devoted countless hours to the Federation of the Blind. David was the recipient of many service awards for his work, including the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. He was also instrumental in establishing the Down East Radio Reading Service for the blind in Rocky Mount, NC.

David’s faith was at the center of his life and inspired all his acts of service. At his church, he led youth and adult mission teams both locally and internationally. He was never more at home than with a hammer or drill in his hand and loved working alongside others to help neighbors in need. Whether it was organizing fundraising events, providing resources for those in need, or simply offering a helping hand, he was always ready to give of himself. He was known for his humility, generosity, and unwavering dedication to helping others. In times of trouble, he always reminded those around him to “keep fighting the good fight.” (2 Timothy 4:7) 

David’s career in public education spanned many years and miles. He received his PhD from North Carolina State University, and he worked tirelessly on behalf of students and their families across the state. His work culminated in his leading the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction as Director.

David was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, and his family remembers him for his kindness, wisdom, and the love he had for them. He is survived by wife, Ronda Edwards; daughters, Caroline Mainor, Elizabeth Cochrane and husband, Brett, and Kristen Edwards Dempsey and husband, Michael; granddaughters, Heather Mainor, Mackenzie Mainor, Addie Grace Dempsey, and Kenna Reese Dempsey; grandsons, Ayden Jones, and Elliot Dempsey; sister, Judy Edwards; brother, Billy Edwards and wife, Louise, and his mother-in-law, Gerry Richeson. He was preceded in death by his son, Blake Murphy and his parents, Jonas and Rachel Edwards.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, September 6, 2024, at First United Methodist Church, 100 Green Street NE, Wilson. Pastor Mike Frese will officiate. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Wilson Evening Lions Club in David’s name to continue supporting the work he was so passionate about (please send your donations to P.O. Box 7298, Wilson, NC 27895). He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit will live on in the lives he touched. 

Condolences can be directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home and Crematory at www.joyners.net.