Mr. Lester Woodrow Edwards Jr., age 79, of Raleigh, N.C., peacefully passed away at home on September 4th, 2023 surrounded by his family. He was the son of the late Lester Woodrow Edwards Sr. and the late Katherine Maughan Edwards. Les was born on July 15, 1944 in Birmingham, AL. Being in a military family afforded him the opportunity to attend schools all over the country and even a couple of years in France. Les was a graduate of Bladensburg High School in Maryland. He was also a proud Terrapin and graduated from The University of Maryland in June of 1970 with a degree in Business and Public Administration. This led him into a long career of financial planning for both Wachovia and Suntrust Banks, ending as a Senior Vice President and Manager in Private Wealth Management when he retired in December of 2006.

From July 1962- October 1970, Les served in the Army Reserves and was honorably discharged as a Second Lieutenant. His bride of 55 years remembers this very well because he had a fresh buzz cut just in time for their wedding day!

Les was united in holy matrimony to Connie Colleen Maiers, on August 24, 1968. They celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary this summer. Les and Connie loved to travel and especially enjoyed their extended stays in Europe. One of their favorite things to do was finding a quaint Bed and Breakfast no matter where they went. Les loved photography and left a legacy of memories for his family to cherish. He also loved the moments when he and Connie would cook together.

Les was preceded in death by his parents and his grandson, Ethan Edwards, of Raleigh, NC.

His life will forever be cherished in the lives of their children: Brian Douglas Edwards of Raleigh, NC, Ashley Edwards Edwards (Wes) of Chesapeake VA, and Courtney Edwards Tojo (Jose) of Raleigh, NC. One of his greatest joys were his 6 grandchildren: Elizabeth Rose Edwards of Raleigh, NC, Linden Edwards Filipkowski (CJ) of Suffolk, VA, Peyton Edwards Fuller (James) and his great granddaughter Harper Linden Fuller, of Hampton Roads, VA, Ethan Chance Edwards, Walker Christian Edwards (Julia) of Portsmouth, VA and Nora Mar Tojo of Raleigh, NC. He is also survived by his brother John Nicholas Edwards (Gail) and his sister Cindy Edwards Messer (Ken) and many devoted nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Les was a long time attendee of First Baptist Church in Raleigh, NC. His faith gives us comfort in knowing that he is with his creator and is at perfect peace.

A private, family memorial service will be held at a later date. The family is especially grateful to the entire 4th floor staff of Rex Hospital and Promedica Hospice Care, who not only gave Les amazing care, but supported his family during this difficult journey. Les was a remarkable human being who was loved by all and will be forever in our hearts.