Herbert F. Edwards, 89, passed away Jan. 5, 2021 at Centerpoint Medical Center in Independence. He was born March 27, 1931 in Mountain Grove to the late Elzie and Ina (Scott) Edwards. He graduated from Mountain Grove High School in 1949 and later received his Bachelor’s Degree from Park University. Herbert retired from the United States Air Force in 1972 as a Chief Master Sergeant at Ent Air Force Base, Colorado Springs, Colo. after 21 years of service.
He received the Meritorious Service Medal along with several other awards during his service. In 1996, Herbert again retired, this time from the United States Department of Agriculture as a Systems Analyst. After retirement, Herbert and Shirley enjoyed 16 winters in Mesa, Ariz.
They also enjoyed many travels and cruises covering all 50 states and three continents before his health declined. On July 24, 1954, Herbert married Shirley Beckman and to that union they had four children. Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Shirley Edwards, Independence; three sons, Terry and wife, Kathy, Blue Springs; James and wife, Allyson; Russell and wife, Linda, Garden City; and his daughter, Becky, and husband, Rick, Kansas City; three sisters, Lorena, Ila and LouAnne; as well as 13 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. His family would like to also thank a special care taker, Rhonda Sparks. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Tharold.
Visitation will be from 1-2 p.m., Monday, Jan. 11, 2021, with funeral service following at 2 p.m., concluding with United States Air Force Military Honors, all at Meyers Funeral Chapel, 1600 W. Main Street, Blue Springs, Mo. 64015. Graveside service will follow at Floral Hills Cemetery.
Due to Jackson County COVID-19 regulations, masks are to be worn during all services. Memorial contributions in Herbert’s name may be given to the Disabled American Veterans. Memories of Herbert and words of comfort for his family may be shared at www.meyersfuneralchapel.com.
