It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Bobby J. Edwards Jr., who left us on Sunday, September 20th, 2026, at the age of 66. Bobby was born on a crisp autumn day, Saturday, November 28th, 1959, in the vibrant city of Oakland, California, son of Bobby J. Edwards, Sr. and Illa June (Long) Edwards. He married Janice (Henderson) Edwards on September 20, 2003.
Bobby was a dedicated professional who served Midwest Tankermen in Lamont, Illinois, with unwavering commitment for over 25 years. Known for his love of the great outdoors, Bobby found joy in fishing and lake outings. He enjoyed the company of his cherished four-legged companion, Maxamillion Edwards, and fond memories of his late companion, Mugsy.
A true family man, Bobby excelled as a loving husband to his wife, Janice Edwards, and was a proud father to his five children: Luke Edwards and wife Jen, Amber Pender and husband Dan, Arianna Poppell and husband Colton, Diane Roper and husband Ray, and Eric Villarreal and wife Brittany. He was also the beloved grandfather to Kharma, Thor, Titus, Greycin, Jesse, Kaydence, Jeremy, Ezra, Killian, Jacob and wife Peyton, Brianna, Blake, Joseph, and Grayson.
As the peacemaker of the Edwards family, Bobby’s simple wisdom and gentle nature brought joy and comfort to those around him. He shared countless hours of happiness playing computer games like Minecraft with his children and grandchildren. Bobby’s fun-loving spirit and zest for life left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
Bobby is survived by his loving siblings: Julie Picardy, Janice Y. Edwards, Dale Edwards, and Wilbert Edwards, as well as a host of nieces and nephews who adored him.
He now joins in eternal rest with his parents, Bobby J. Edwards, Sr. and Illa J. Edwards, his brother Joseph L. Edwards, and his infant son, Benjamin Edwards.
In celebration of Bobby’s life, a visitation will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia, Illinois, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 PM led by Pastor Don Shaffer. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park, also in Centralia. In lieu of flowers, the Edwards family kindly requests memorial donations be made in Bobby’s name to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation. Donations will be graciously accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home located at 235 North Sycamore Street Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618)532-3523, which is honored to be entrusted with Bobby’s care. Condolences may be shared with Bobby’s family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com or through the funeral home’s Facebook page. I’m watching you fish bait….
