Jeanne L. Edwards, 81, of Westport Island, passed away peacefully on Oct. 19 at sunrise, the time of day she favored most.
She was predeceased in 1996 by her husband, Jeremiah; and sisters, Phyllis Kellogg and Pat McLaughlin.
She is survived by three children and their spouses, Pamela Shockley and George, Jerry Edwards II and Bertie, and Bruce Edwards and Deborah; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; brother, John Williams and Mary; and sisters, Norma Edwards and Harry, and Nancy Comfort and Larry.
Born in Elmira, N.Y. in 1925 to Gordon and Crystal Williams, she married into the Navy life at the end of WWII. Throughout the years she moved with her family to South Carolina, Virginia, Japan, Hawaii, California, Scotland UK, Connecticut, Florida and Maine.
Her accomplished career as a photo/journalist began in 1945 with the Elmira Star Gazette, the Norwich Bulletin in Connecticut and ultimately, Florida Today, as well as several small publications.
She was an artist of note and an avid gardener. With her husband, Jeremiah, she started the Bonsai Society of Brevard and was also a member of the National Hibiscus Society.
Jeanne lived with a vibrant, friendly energy and was always volunteering to help those less fortunate. Her efforts were recognized by many, including the Japanese government, for her work with orphanages. In Scotland she was the only American with the WVS (Women’s Volunteer Service). She was a Gray Lady Volunteer Nurse and ambulance aide in Connecticut and worked with the children at the Devereux Developmental Disabilities Group Homes in Florida. Wherever she lived she volunteered with the Red Cross. A constant source of energy and creativity, her limitless contributions of time, effort, love and compassion have touched and enhanced the lives of very many around the world.
She was a member of the Methodist church. Her favorite charities included the American Heart Association, Kofu Orphanage, Yokohama, Japan and Devereux Developmental Disabilities in Melbourne, Fla. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to any charitable organization of your choice. She would have loved that.
Services 11 a.m., Fri., Nov. 2 at Woodlawn National Cemetery in Elmira, N.Y.
Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Kincer Funeral Home, 130 Pleasant St., Richmond, ME 04357. (207) 737-9063.
