Donald Ray Edwards, 70, of Frankfort, IL, passed away peacefully on April 19. He was born in Alton, IL, and lived a life of full of love, good humor, commitment to causes that inspired him, and devotion to a family who loved him deeply.
Don’s passions were numerous and sincerely felt. A fishing trip with his son. An afternoon of golf with his closest friends. A day spent volunteering at the food pantry. His service to the Lion’s Club. A peaceful morning with his wife, Deborah, sharing coffee over the newspaper. An evening with his daughters, playing games and sharing stories. Don’s first passion was always his family, to whom he was endlessly devoted and imparted values and life lessons that will remain with them always.
Don’s passion was also evident in his nearly-50 years of service to credit unions, 39 of which was spent at the Illinois Credit Union League. In numerous roles, most recently as the Senior Vice President of Federal Government Affairs, Don oversaw the League’s legislative and political action activities, always advocating with his trademark gentle charm and sincerity. Though he was honored for his decades of service with tribute awards and a scholarship established in his name, it was the friendships he formed and belief in his cause that inspired Don to accomplishments too numerous to list here.
Don is survived by his wife of 36 years, Deborah; his three children, Jessica (Brian), Daniel (Katie), and Julie; his grandson, Zavier; his brother, James (Teri), and his step-brother, John Roy.
Visitation will be held Monday from 3-8pm at Gerardi Funeral Home, 9501 W. Lincoln Hwy., Frankfort. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday at 10:30 AM, also at Gerardi Funeral Home. Interment Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Frankfort. For information, please call 815-469-2144.
In lieu of flowers, the Edwards family requests memorial contributions be directed to the Leukemia Research Foundation in Don’s name.
