Joseph (Joe) Eugene Edwards passed away surrounded by love on May 25, 2021. A son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend, he will forever be remembered for his kind and selfless heart, devotion to his family, and his hardworking spirit.
Joe was born the sixth of eight children on August 2, 1933, Whitehall, MT to Robert Ross and Elsie Lillian (Johnston) Edwards. Raised on a farm in Cardwell, MT and graduating from Whitehall High in 1951, he was a Montana boy through and through. One of his favorite times was ‘hunting camp’ in Pony, MT at his brother Bob’s ranch with his brothers, son, nephews, and sons-in law. His other passion was fishing, which he passed on to all his grandchildren. Fishing trips with Grandpa will always be a cherished memory.
Joe entered the Army in March of 1953, where he served in Germany and France as a lineman and radio operator. He returned in 1955 and began his 33-year career with Mountain Bell in 1956.
Joe met the love of his life, Roberta (Jean) Hogg, at Eddie’s Corner in 1956 when he was installing telephone poles all along the Montana Hi-Line. They were married June 1, 1958 and lived in numerous towns along the Hi-Line. They were blessed with four children, Cary Jo, Wayne, Jodie, and Connie, while they moved around the state from the Hi-Line to Sidney, West Yellowstone, Bozeman and finally settling in Helena in 1978. They enjoyed traveling with friends and family, square dancing, and many adventures in their motorhome (some of which were caused by Joe’s ‘short-cuts’).
After retirement in 1990, Joe spent many years being a handyman. His handiwork will be remembered & appreciated by those he served, especially his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Cary Jo, all his siblings, Cena, Bob, Frances, Betty, Jim, Reid, and Phil.
He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 63 years, Jean, his sisters-in-law, Beverly Edwards, Keitha Edwards, Mary (John) Mckinlay, Linda (Ken) Best, and Marlys Hogg; his children, Wayne Edwards of Kentucky, Jodie (John) DeYoung of Missoula, and Connie (Lenny) Lundin of Helena; his grandchildren Austin (Shanley) Lundin, Steven (Breezie) DeYoung, Jasmine (Kevin) Cigarroa, Brandon DeYoung, Devin (Chelsey) Lundin, Terran DeYoung, and Logan Lundin; his great grandchildren Gemma, Thea, and Declan Lundin, Camryn and Aubree DeYoung, Keene Cigarroa, Kimber and Wesson Lundin and many nieces and nephews.
We love you for always and forever! Stay out of trouble Hoofengoofer!
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the staff of BeeHive House 16 and St Peter’s Hospice for their love and care during these last few months.
A memorial service celebrating Joe’s life will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 5th at Covenant United Methodist Church, 2330 E. Broadway St. A reception will follow the service in the fellowship hall of the church. In lieu of flowers, please make memorials to BeeHive Homes of Helena Memory Care, or Hospice of St. Peter’s.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
11:30 a.m.
Saturday June 5, 2021
Covenant United Methodist Church
2330 E. Broadway Street
Helena, Montana 59601
Reception
Following the Memorial Service
Saturday June 5, 2021
Covenant United Methodist Church
2330 E. Broadway Street
Helena, Montana 59601
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
11:30 a.m.
Saturday June 5, 2021
Covenant United Methodist Church
2330 E. Broadway Street
Helena, Montana 59601
Reception
Following the Memorial Service
Saturday June 5, 2021
Covenant United Methodist Church
2330 E. Broadway Street
Helena, Montana 59601
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Nona Keeler says
When I think of Joe, the first word that comes to mind is “KIND”. So very sorry for your loss and I wish you comfort in family, friends and memories.
Crystal Shors says
Joe was the energy behind Telephone Pioneers work and many service projects. A good man whose thoughts were focused on helping others. Godspeed, Joe. Well done.
Tanya Hartman says
My deepest sympathies and love are sent to Joe’s family. I am blessed to have not only known him but experienced the awesome work of his handyman days! He worked with my dad for the majority of their careers at Ma Bell and remained friends for the many years after that. Dad just left us March 28th and will be there to show Joe around their heavenly home.
Lorraine Dooner says
So sorry, Jean and family, to hear of Joe’s passing. Marge Hannah called to let me know. I remember Joe sitting in my blue rocking chair in Great Falls petting my dog Sally. I only visited with him a few times, mostly at Moore High School reunions. And a couple of times at your home. He was a kind man as I remember. You two seemed to me like a perfect couple. And such a blessing to be married for over 60 years.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you, Jean, and your family.
Blessings and love, Lorraine Dooner
Pat says
Sending all my love to my whole Edwards family. I’m so blessed to have known Joe and call all of you family. My love and prayers are with you. “Kentucky” Pat.