Jerry L. Edwards, lovingly known by many as “Uncle Jerry,” 66, of Elkhart, passed away on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at Elkhart General Hospital after an extended illness. He was born on September 27, 1959, in Humboldt, TN to the late Leon Thomas “Buck” and Nancy Marie (Harrison) Edwards.

In addition to his parents, Jerry is preceded in death by his brothers, Anthony and Barry Edwards. He is survived by his children, Shaundra (Aaron) Farrell of Elkhart, Cymantha Jones of Elkhart, Shanaya “Shay” Edwards of Tennessee, Jared Edwards of Elkhart, Thomas Edwards of Elkhart, and Jerry Edwards of Tennessee; many grandchildren; siblings, James Edwards of Elkhart, Gary Edwards of Humboldt, TN, Felicia Quick of Humboldt, TN, and Regina Cannon of Faribault, MN; aunt, Janice Harrison; lifelong friend, Sasha Bonds; and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews; along with several great great nieces and nephews.

Visitation will take place on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church, 802 W Garfield Ave, Elkhart, IN 46516. Service will start promptly at 10 a.m. at the church with Rev. Johnson officiating. Jerry will be laid to rest at a private family graveside in Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, MI with full Military Honors to be rendered.

Jerry was a kindhearted man who was a friend to all and made everyone his family. He served proudly in the United States Marines and worked as a laborer in Elkhart. In his high school years, he played baseball and basketball, the latter of which he was very talented. He could run circles around the other players with ease and shoot the ball into the hoop better than any of his other classmates. Jerry always had an outgoing personality, and many people enjoyed his witty sense of humor.

He was a family man and enjoyed spending time with his family any chance he had. Jerry was a fantastic cook and loved making burgers, fried chicken, and tuna salad. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing pool, online poker tournaments, and watching old westerns, cop dramas, and wrestling. To say “Uncle Jerry” would be missed is a great understatement. He made everyone feel welcome in his home and in his life.