Wilmer Edwards

Charlie Edwards, 99, of West Columbia, Texas died at home on July 31, 2016. He was born in Sylvester, Texas on April 5, 1917 to John Edwards and Myrtie Briggs Edwards. To his family he was lovingly known as Pop.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Ila Edwards, his parents and his sister Merrena Babb.
He is survived by his son, Charles Lynn Edwards and his wife Paula Cox Edwards, step-children Shirley Rudman and husband Bill and Carol Prose. Grandchildren: Rebekah Cunningham and husband Travis, Jeremy Edwards and wife Melissa; Step grandchildren, Cheryl Crutcher, Cindy Stier and husband Jeff, Hope Prkut, Scott Selstad and wife Melissa, and Eric Selstad. He was blessed with many great-grandchildren.
After High School, Charlie joined the Army and served in the 9th Armored Division during WWII. The 9th Armored Division, nicknamed "Phantom" was involved in engagements of Operation Fortitude, Battle of the Bulge and Operation Lumberjack.
After his tour of duty, Charlie and his wife Ila moved to West Columbia where he opened his business, Edwards' Gulf station for many years. He was a strong supporter of Central EMS. During the gas shortages in the 70's, he would hold back enough gas to ensure that Central EMS would have enough gas to keep the Ambulances rolling. This was his way of helping the community should an emergency occur.
Pallbearers: Jeremy Edwards, Jakob Graves, Scott Selstad, Travis Cunningham, Westley Graves, B.D. Mahurin will be given the honor of carrying him to his final resting place next to his wife Ila of 61 years.
Visitation will be 6 pm to 8 pm on Thursday, August 4, 2016 at Baker Funeral Home in West Columbia, Services will be Friday, August 5, 2016 at 4 pm at Baker Funeral Home followed by military graveside ceremony.
In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations be made to Central Emergency Medical Services at 400 N. 13th, West Columbia, Texas 77486

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