Bruce Edwards

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Bruce Edwards, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Bruce was born on September 14, 1959, in Eldorado, Illinois to Earl Ray Edwards and Susan Mitchell Edwards. He lived a life defined by hard work and deep commitment to both his family and the land he loved. On July 18, 2025, Bruce passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and resilience.

As a dedicated farmer, Bruce poured his heart into cultivating the earth, nurturing both crops and relationships that enriched the lives of those around him. His spirit remains indelibly etched in the hearts of his family, including his cherished spouse, Karen Edwards, and their two daughters, Jaclyn (Nick) Hunt and Emily (Jeremy) Browning. He took immense joy in being a grandfather to Claire, Caroline, Cora, and Carson Hunt, and Lucas, Lydia, and Lexie Browning.

Bruce is also survived by his loving sister, Lesa (Wade) Newton, father-in-law, Jack Dickey, sister-in-law Susan Musgrave, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, infant daughter, Shanna Rae Edwards, mother-in-law, Mary Ann Dickey, and brother-in-law, Bill Musgrave.

In addition to farming, Bruce served as the president of the Gallatin County Soil and Water Conservation District for 20 years and also served as the president for the Gallatin County Khoury League for a number of years. He coached softball in his younger years and, most recently, spent a lot of time being a spectator at his granddaughters’ various sporting events.

Friends and family are invited to gather in remembrance of Bruce's life. A public viewing will be held on Monday, July 21, 2025, from 4 PM to 7 PM, at Cox & Son funeral home in Ridgway, Illinois allowing loved ones to pay their respects. The funeral service will take place on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at 11 AM at Cox & Son funeral home, with Scott Luckett officiating to celebrate Bruce's life and the values he held dear. Following the service, Bruce will be laid to rest at Palestine #2 Cemetery in Omaha, Illinois where he can eternally watch over both his family and the land he treasured.

In this time of sorrow, we find solace in the memories we shared with Bruce and the love that will always bind us together. He will be profoundly missed but forever remembered in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Gallatin County Youth Athletics or St. Kateri Catholic Church.