Edward Strawbridge

Edward Lee Strawbridge

Belden - On September 30, 2023 Edward Lee Strawbridge, age 92, left his earthly home for a joyous reunion with his beloved wife, daughter, and granddaughter in their heavenly home. Edward was born on January 20, 1931 in Vernon, Alabama to the late Elbert Kirk Strawbridge and the late Vera Jewel (Cox) Strawbridge.

He attended Grubb Springs School in Monroe County. A hard worker all of his life, his first job was delivering Grit magazines and ice cream to members of his community. A patriot, he proudly served his country in the United States Army where he served in the Korean War and upon returning he completed his education. Upon returning to civilian life, he opened an ornamental iron shop. Skilled with his hands, he became a master of heating and air conditioning installation and repair. His last jobs entailed working with Bishop Heating/AC in Illinois and Knight & Wilson Company based out of Memphis.

At the age of 24, on August 18, 1955, he married the love of his life, Lona Bell Rea. Together they were blessed with over 65 years of marriage, four children, and a large extended family. He loved his family deeply and was fiercely protective of them. His greatest joy was being with his family and enjoying the accomplishments of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. At age 92, he built an apartment in his home for grandchildren and great grandchildren so they could enjoy their time at his home.

With a zest for life, he was known for his humorous stories, pranks, good conversation, and generosity. He trusted in Jesus as his Lord and Savior. In his free time, he could be found reading, especially about history, playing rook, and sight-seeing at historical places. He was a master at gardening and his family and friends said all his fingers were green, not just his thumb. Edward liked to listen to Hank Williams, Elvis and true country music.

Edward leaves behind a legacy of a loving family and friends and the peace of knowing they will see him again one day. They know they will be greeted with “Come here and let me show you something”!
He is survived by daughters, Ruthie Thillen, Krugerville, TX, Teresa Wilbanks (Farin), Belden, MS; son, Eddie Strawbridge, II, Belden,MS; grandchildren, Amanda Little (Travis), Jason Powers (Tracey), Michelle Robinson, Christine Thillen, Eddie Strawbridge, III (Danielle); great-grandchildren, Kara Powers, Lauren Fletcher (Eli), Holden, Tripp, and Josie Little; Libby Stallings; Bristol Neace; Abigail & James Robinson; Troy Lowe; sister, Willa Dean Reeves, Sulligent, Al.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife and best friend, Lona Bell (Rea) Strawbridge; daughter, Sheila Strawbridge; granddaughter, Juliana Thillen; brothers, James Strawbridge, Lealon Strawbridge, Duel Ray Strawbridge, and Fred Strawbridge; sisters, Erma Nell Haney and Shirley Davis.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, October 7, 2023 at 3:00 p.m., at The Church of God of Prophecy in Hamilton, Mississippi with Brother Billy West officiating. Burial will follow at McDuffa Cemetery in Hamilton, Mississippi. Pallbearers will be Travis Little, Holden Little, Tripp Little, Jason Powers, James Robinson and Farin Wilbanks.

Visitation for family and friends will be held at the church on Saturday from 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm.
Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at EEPickleFuneralHome.com.