Paul “Billy” W. Edwards Jr., 71, passed away peacefully at Richmond County Hospice's Hospice Haven on Jan. 12, 2025.
Born in Richmond County on July 3, 1953, Billy was raised by his loving grandparents, Buck and Louise Strider, who instilled in him values of care, hard work, and self-sufficiency. Under their nurturing care, Billy learned to tend a garden, cook, and develop many life skills that he cherished throughout his life. He often reminisced about his formative years learning at the McLaurin Center in Hamlet and his first job pulling stamps off winder cones.
Billy’s greatest gift was his boundless heart and love for people. He found joy in cooking meals for his pastor and church members, a reflection of his deep connection to his faith. Billy had a passion for church, the beach, music shows, fishing, and caring for his beloved rabbits. One of his favorite traditions was preparing snacks for election days, treating them with the same enthusiasm as the Super Bowl.
Billy was the beloved son of his mother, Billy Jean Atkinson, and his bonus father, Bernie Atkinson. He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Shirlyn Edwards and Janice Webster.
Billy is survived by his baby sister, Teresa Gail Edwards; his nieces, Amanda Kempen (Chris) of Rockingham and Sandy Pinney (Tim) of Rockingham; and his nephews, Steven Webster (Jessica) of Charlotte and Jason Webster (Lindsay) of St. Augustine, Florida.
Billy will be fondly remembered by his family and friends for his unique sense of humor, playful practical jokes, and incredible memory of American presidents. His warmth, kindness, and infectious spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
A celebration of Billy’s life will be held on Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025 beginning at 1 p.m. at Harrington Funeral Home in Hamlet, NC. The family will receive friends prior to the service from noon-1 p.m.
Interment will follow at Richmond County Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Richmond County Hospice, 1119 N. U.S. Highway 1, Rockingham, NC 28379.
Billy’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering faith. He will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered.
Harrington Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family. Online condolences may be made at harringtonfuneralhome.com.
