John Edwards (1939 - 2011)

Williamsburg, VA

John Edwards, an internationally respected NASA aeronautics engineer and loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away in Williamsburg, VA on June 3, 2011 after a long and brave struggle with cancer.

He was born July 8, 1939 in Colfax, Iowa and spent his youth in Colfax, Des Moines, and Portland, Oregon. He graduated from Yale University in 1961 and held a PhD in aeronautics and astronautics from Stanford University. 

He served in the Peace Corps in Ethiopia between 1963 and 1965. In 1965 he began work for NASA in California. In 1980 he transferred to NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, VA, where he was a senior research engineer, and retired in 2007.

He was recognized as an international authority in aeroelastics and was also well-liked and respected as a friend and colleague at NASA and among international leaders in the aviation industry. His career achievements included more than 80 technical publications, and solving critical problems in national programs ranging from the B-2 bomber to the Space Shuttle. He was elected as Fellow in the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics in recognition for his significant contribution to the nation's preeminence in aviation.

He had many hobbies, including photography and woodworking, and was an accomplished chef. He was a patient and caring father, who encouraged his daughters to be independent. His had a curious and open mind, and loved travel and history.

Preceding him in death are his father Lewis Edwards, mother Zola Romick Edwards Cole, and brother Robert Edwards. He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 44 years, Addy Edwards of Williamsburg, VA; two daughters, Susan Edwards of Los Angeles, and Mary Edwards of Boston; and his three grandsons, Colin, Matthew, and Thomas. 

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, June 9 at 11 a.m., preceded by a gathering at Nelsen Funeral Home in Williamsburg, VA. The family asks that donations be made in memory of him to the Massey Cancer Center at Virginia Commonwealth University. Online condolences may be expressed at www.nelsencares.com.