Rev. James Leroy Edwards, Sr., 83, of Coffeeville, passed away Saturday, June 15, 2024.  James was born on June 18, 1940 in Coffeeville to Leroy and Lucile Haynes Edwards.  James was a 1958 graduate of Coffeeville High School and a proud member of the 1957 State Championship Basketball Team.  He furthered his education, earning a bachelor's degree in Education from Mississippi State University, where he excelled in Basketball. His passion for teaching and coaching led him to several schools before he answered the Lord's call to the gospel ministry.  James then enrolled at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, beginning a lifetime of spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ. In 1980, James and his young family returned to Coffeeville, where he served as a bi-vocational minister in several churches in the area. His farming endeavors and the operation of Edwards & Sons in Coffeeville, which has provided agricultural services to area farmers for over 40 years, further demonstrated his commitment to his community.  James has performed countless weddings and funerals through the years and held true to his commitment to living for the Lord all his days.  "Well done, good and faithful servant."

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Wednesday, June 19, 2024 at First Baptist Church – Coffeeville with Rev. Craig Baker and Rev. Truman Scarborough officiating.  Interment will follow in the Broadstreet Cemetery near Coffeeville.  The family will receive friends from 5:00 – 7:00 PM Tuesday evening and one hour prior to the service Wednesday at First Baptist Church – Coffeeville.

Rev. James Leroy Edwards, Sr. is survived by his loving wife, Shirley Gray Edwards, who stood by his side throughout his life's journey. He is also survived by his two sons, Jim Edwards(Gail) and Timothy Edwards(April), all of Coffeeville, who carry on his legacy. His sister, Vera Shows of Louisville, and his grandson, Andrew Edwards, also mourn his loss.

He is preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Vernell Gray.

Pallbearers will be Michael Davis, Steve Ellis, Gaylon Gray, David McCluney, Nikoma Myhand, Rex Myhand, Don Sheffield, Mark Shows, Ronnie Tritt and Scott Waldo.  Russell Fisk, Jim Gholson, Billy Gordon, Wayne Harris, Chick Miller, Thomas Simmons, Larry Tritt and Wayne Turner will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Memorials may be directed to First Baptist Church – Coffeeville.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.mckibbenandguinn.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to McKibben and Guinn Funeral Service in Grenada, (662-307-2694).