Biography
Mrs. Elise Devoe Smith Edwards, 81, of East Carolina Avenue, Varnville, entered into eternal rest Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at her residence. She was the widow of Bishop Freddie M. Edwards, Sr.
Funeral services will be held 11 am, Friday, August 19, 2011 at Nixville Church of God of Prophecy with Bishop Fred Fisher and Reverend Michael Frederickson officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.
Mrs. Edwards was born October 11, 1929 in Grays and was a daughter of the late Neilie Smith and Eva Shipes Smith. She was a retired lunchroom manager of Wade Hampton High School. She was a faithful and active member of Nixville Church of God of Prophecy and was known by all as "Granny". She was a loving mother and grandmother who centered her life around her family and her church.
Surviving are: her children, Freddie M. Edwards, Jr. and his wife Susan of Varnville, Morris Edwards of Varnville, Gail Elise Stanley and her husband David of Seabrook and Shirley Watkins Cook of Varnville; brothers, Donald Smith of Grays and Sam Smith of Turkey, NC; sisters, Evelyn Moody of Varnville and Joyce Smith of Grays; a devoted friend, Darlene Bowers of Nixville; 10 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; and 8 great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by 4 brothers and sisters.
Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to: Sanctuary Hospice, Post Office Box 161, Ridgeland, SC 29936.
Visitation will be held Thursday evening from 6 until 8 at THE BRICE W. HERNDON AND SONS FUNERAL HOMES, VARNVILLE-HAMPTON CHAPEL, 1074 Yemassee Highway, Varnville, 803.943.5016; www.briceherndonfuneralhome.com.