Steven O’Neil Edwards, 61, of Cascade, Virginia transitioned from earth to his final home into the arms of our Holy Father and Savior on July 25, 2019 at 2:38 p.m. while being hospitalized at SOVAH – Martinsville, VA.

Steve is preceded in death by his father, Thomas Williams and mother, Doris Lucille Edwards; and grandparents, Harvey and Elizabeth Edwards. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Bell Edwards. He is also survived by two brothers, Wayne Edwards of Alexandria, VA, and Mark Edwards of South Prince George, VA; four sisters, Regina Young (Carl) of McDonough, GA, Brenda McBride (Melvin) of New Zion, SC, Wanda Deliah Edwards of Upper Marlboro, MD and Doris Carla Edwards of Manassas, VA; one aunt, Alice Heath Jones. Jennifer Scales was a loyal assistant that worked with Steve for several years.

Steve was born on May 3, 1958 in Paterson, New Jersey. He was outgoing and inclined through the arts. He became interested in music early on in life playing percussion for the high school marching band. He also played the guitar and tambourine. Steve was awarded in school for his role as a library assistant. He graduated from Prince George High School in 1977. He later enrolled in classes at Richard Bland College for certification in Criminal Justice. Steve also received sponsored training at WSSC for radio broadcasting.

Steve became physically disabled as a young man, but he didn’t let that stop his path. He channeled his talents into hosting events as a disc jockey, and writing books. He authored and published his first children’s book entitled, My Dog, DIGGER in 2006 and shortly thereafter, A Collective of Works: “The Hardness of the World”-poetry depicting politics, religion, friends, etc. He promoted his works in school systems and was invited to speak to students at elementary schools. The city of Petersburg recognized Steve for his literature presentation at the Author’s Pavilion (2007). He began cultivating his forte through public speaking as an unsung, multi-talented enthusiast. Steve began experimenting with writing in high school and his poems were published in the school newspaper. He exclusively authored an array of written books and poems.

Prior to his independent work, Steve was proudly employed by Petersburg Detention Center as a Jailor; He held security positions for various locations.

Steve grew up as an active member at Union Branch Baptist Church where he served on the Usher Board and Sunday school for many years. He joined the 4-H organization as a youth.

A memorial service will be held in honor of Steve’s life on August 9, 2019 at 12 p.m. at Union Branch Baptist Church in South Prince George, Va. The Reverend Dr. Andrew J. White will eulogize the service. Remains are being serviced by Hairston Funeral Home, Martinsville, Va.