James Bruce Edwards, age 78, of Denver, North Carolina, passed away on Friday, April 24, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on June 5, 1947, in Ironton, Missouri, to George Edwards and Edna (Hasty) Edwards.
James proudly served his country as a Corporal in the United States Marine Corps, completing two years of service, including a tour in Vietnam. After completing his military service, James graduated from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. In 2004, he retired from Marathon Pipeline in Wood River, IL.
On August 10, 1968, James married the love of his life, Pamela (Mack) Edwards, of Iron Mountain, Missouri. Together, they shared 58 wonderful years of marriage and built a life centered on love and family, raising their two daughters in Bethalto, IL.
James found his greatest joy in the time he spent with his family, who referred to him as “Bobo” or “Jimbo.” He cherished every opportunity to watch his grandchildren grow, whether cheering from the stands at a baseball game, applauding at a cheerleading competition, attending plays, or sitting courtside at tennis matches—always eager to support whatever passions they pursued.
He also enjoyed a wide range of personal interests, including baking, cooking, tending to his yard, fishing, listening to music, reading, shooting his BB guns, and watching movies. Above all else, family remained at the heart of everything he did. His love and dedication to them were constant and unwavering throughout his life.
James was preceded in death by his parents, George and Edna Edwards; his father- and mother-in-law, Matthew and Anne Mack; his sister, Dorothy “Jodi” Ricketts; his brothers, Tom Edwards and Richard “Ricky” Edwards; his brothers-in-law, Brookes Freegard, Bud Evans, and James “Buz” Ricketts; and his son-in-law, Christopher Turlington.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Pamela Edwards of North Carolina; his daughters, Rebecca Wood (Gerald Wood) of North Carolina and Rae Anne Turlington of Maryland; his grandchildren, Trenton Wood, Avery Wood, Hunter Turlington, and Lake Turlington; his sisters, George Ann Kirkland (David Kirkland) of Oklahoma, Carol Evans of Washington, and Judy Freegard of Texas; his brother, Michael Edwards of Missouri; his brother-in-law, Michael Mack (Debbie); his sister-in-law, Jean Edwards of Mississippi; as well as many cherished nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held this summer.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Jim to either of the following:
Heavenly Caregiving (c/o Ashley Ingram):
4736 Asbury Church Road, Lincolnton, NC 28092
Zelle: Ashley Ingram – 980-210-6981
Venmo: @jeremy-reid-54
Email: ashleyhrron7@mail.com
VIA Health Partners Hospice of Lincolnton/Lincoln County:
900 Dontia Dr, Lincolnton, NC 28092
Phone: 704-732-6146
What a beautiful homage to a wonderful man. My deepest sympathies go out to his family, friends, and all who had the good fortune of knowing him. May you all find peace in his eternal comfort and the joyous memories he left with you.
With love and prayers,
Juliana Frenkil
Pam and family. Steve and I remember Jim as a funny, wonderful guy. Our prayers and God’s light are with you. Steve and Vicki(Boring) Jones
Pam and family, So sorry for your loss, I was able to work with Jim for 4 years, we had some great times talking about life itself, I remember Jim talking about how excited he was for him and Pam to move out East to be close to his girls, RIP Jim, Dorrie and I will have the family in our prayers!!
Pam and family, My heart aches for you! Wishing you peace as you navigate life without Jim, the anchor that has always been there for the family. Holding you in prayer as you as you honor the incredible life that was so precious to all the family. Love. Hugs and prayers, cousin Janet McFerron
Rae Anne,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. Sending prayers of peace and comfort to you and your entire family.
I am so sorry Pam. Prayers and hugs for you and your family. Deb
Pam and All Your Family
The Heart is never ready the time is never right to say good-bye. Thinking of you with deepest sympathy and hoping each new tomorrow will bring you comfort and peace. Our Bethalto days will always be very special to Tara, April and me.