James Edwards

James A. Edwards, 88, New Athens, died Saturday, April 3, 2010 at his home. He was born November 20, 1921 in New Athens, Ohio a son of the late Norval and Beatrice Swindell Edwards. Jim served in the United States Army Air Corp during World War II and flew many missions to rescue crew from planes that had been shot down. After his service to the Army he farmed for 20 years and then started to work for Hannah Coal and retired from Consol. He served as a trustee for Athens Township for 24 years, was a member of the Stumptown Steam Thrashers and Franklin Museum. Jim was preceded in death in addition to his parents, by 4 brothers: Max, Tom, Dean and as a child Vogel; and a sister, Betty Carter. Jim is survived by his wife of 47 years, Shirley Griswold Edwards; a son, Garth Edwards of New Athens; a daughter, Melissa Blake and her husband Frank of New Athens; 2 grandchildren: Chadd Garrison of New Athens and Britany (Jason) Hodgson of St. Clairsville; 1 great granddaughter, Jade Lynne Garrison; and a sister, Donna Collins of Milan, Illinois. A private service will be held at the convenience of the family. Interment will take place at Longview Cemetery, New Athens, Ohio. Arrangements by Clark-Kirkland Funeral Home, Cadiz, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions be made to: Medi Home Health Care and Hospice, 68150 Bayberry Drive, St. Clairsville, Ohio 43950. The memorial guestbook may be signed at www.clark-kirkland.com.