Robert T. Edwards

September 17, 1926 - January 30, 2022

Robert T. Edwards was born September 6, 1926, and departed this life on Sunday, January 30, 2022. Robert was one of five children born in Onley, VA to Robert and Helen Wise Edwards. Robert Edwards was baptized at an early age and graduated from Mary N. Smith High School of Accomack, VA. He also attended North Carolina A & T State University. Robert Edwards and Frances Strand, whom he lovingly called “Frank,” were married on June 15, 1953. They relocated to Portsmouth where they had a son, Gregory Leo Edwards, in 1955. The young family joined and became active members of Emanuel A.M.E. Church where Robert served as a member of the Steward Board. He also became well-known in the community for his workmanship as the proprietor of Crossroads Shoe Repair Shop in Portsmouth for nearly 60 years. After Frances passed in 1993, Robert married Jean Wright of Portsmouth who passed in 2016. Robert was preceded in death by his parents (Robert and Helen Edwards), wife (Frances), brother (Ralph), second wife (Jean), and sister (Dr. Sarah Anderson). He will be remembered by his brother, Alfred of Maryland (Antha), sister, JoAnn of Delaware, and son, Gregory Leo (Jan) of Ohio. In addition, a host of loving nieces (Denise, April, Karen, Carla); nephews (Alfred, Bobby, Dwayne, Mark, Clifton, Carby, Zachary); relatives (Sarah & James Williams), friends, neighbors, and caring friends (Deloris Lee) will mourn and celebrate Robert Edwards’ life and memory.