Richard Roy Edwards, Sr.

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Mr. Richard Roy Edwards, Sr. was born in Carmi, Illinois, on June 11, 1897. He was the youngest son born to Elias Lawrence Edwards and Margaret Ford Edwards.

As a young man, he moved to Champaign in the early 20s, where he met and married Ora Thornhill. To this union was born a son, Richard Roy, Jr.

Mr. Edwards professed Christ at an early age while still in Carmi. Soon after arriving in Champaign, he joined the Morning Star Freewill Baptist Church. He was a staunch member, serving as Deacon for many years until his failing health.

He was employed by the U. S. Postal Service and was the first African American Letter Carrier in Champaign. Upon his retirement from the Postal Service, Mr. Edwards accepted a position as County Probation Officer. He was a prominent community leader, serving as a member of the Champaign School Board, Unit #4, from 1957 to 1968. He was also the School Board secretary from 1964 to 1968.

Mr. Edwards was a 32nd Degree Mason and a 50-year member of the Blue Lone Star Lodge, #18. He was a past Master and holder of many Grand Lodge offices. Mr. Edwards was past Exalted Ruler of the University Order of Elks Lodge #619, and held several offices at the state level.

Mr. Edwards passed away on December 18, 1988.

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Edwards, Sr., Richard Roy