Claude Lester Edwards

WEAVERVILLE – Claude Lester Edwards, age 81, died on Thursday, October 12, 2023.

Mr. Edwards was born on March 20, 1942, in Buncombe County where he had lived all of his life.  He enjoyed playing softball at the Beech Community Center and gardening.  But nothing topped the love he had for his children and grandchildren.  Claude never met a stranger and will be greatly missed.

He retired as a Highway Superintendent with the NC DOT after 30 years of service. A member of the Reems Creek Fire Department for 50 years.  Claude served his community through his church and the fire department.  He loved the shape note singers and lead the singing for many years at Brown’s Chapel Baptist Church in Reems Creek.

He was the son of the late Reverend John Lester Edwards and Lillie Bell Honeycutt Edwards. Also preceding him in death were sisters, Pauline Rice, Pearl Sprinkle, Hazel Rash and brothers, Luther and Clyde Edwards.

He is survived by his wife, Stella Penland Edwards; daughter Tara McDaris (Matthew); and son Jeff Edwards (Carol); brothers, Reverend Eugene Edwards (Juanita); sisters-in-law, Eulene Edwards and Barbara Edwards; brother-in-law, Fred Rash; grandchildren, Noah Edwards, Isaac Edwards (Lyndsay) Logan McDaris, Kinsey McDaris; great grandchildren, Frankie and Bo Edwards; and best friend, Ronald Cole. 

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 15, 2023 in Ashelawn Gardens of Memory, 901 Aiken Road, Asheville with his nephew, Reverend Derrick Rash and Reverend Philip Wilson officiating.

West Family Funeral Services is honored to be serving Mr. Edwards’ family. Condolences may be sent to the family through the website, www.WestFamilyFuneralServices.com.