Galen Edwards

(From Parker Mortuary)

Galen Richard Edwards, age 70 of Joplin, passed away at 3:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2014 at Freeman West Hospital after a sudden illness.

Born August 17, 1944 in Joplin, he was the son of the late Lester Charles Edwards and Velma Mae Henson Edwards and lived in the Joplin area most of his lifetime. Galen worked as a representative for Eagle-Picher Industries, Anderson Wholesale and Fleming Foods. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War, holding the rank of Airman First Class, where he toured on an expert marksmanship team and was a boxer. He also loved bowling and fishing, having competed in several bass tournaments.

Survivors include his sons, Brent R. Edwards of Greenwood, AR, Hayden L. Edwards of the Joplin-Diamond area; daughters, Jamie Soderlund, Stormy Rehmeyer and Darlia Youngblood; a brother, Leroy Charles Edwards and wife Herlinda of Crossville, TN; 12 grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Graveside services with military honors will be held 2:00 p.m. Tuesday at Calton Cemetery, southeast of Monett with Rev. Bob Simon officiating. Family members will serve as pallbearers. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Hospital in care of Parker Mortuary.