Ben Edwards

Ben Edwards passed away July 26, 2025 at his home in Goreville, Illinois, with his wife Sharon at his side. Ben was born September 30, 1936 in Grinnell, Iowa to Benjamin T. and Norma (Mintle) Edwards. The family moved to Benton, Illinois where Ben grew up. He was one of seven siblings. In his youth he worked in the poultry business, delivering eggs in Southern Illinois and some nearby states. Ben graduated from Southern Illinois University with a degree in Social work and Human Services. He spent his career working for the Illinois Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse. He developed, expanded and oversaw services to communities in Southern Illinois. He loved Southern Illinois and refused efforts to be transferred northward. Ben lived in Anna and then in Goreville where he bought a small farm 40 years ago. Ben had three children: Robin Edwards Cunningham, spouse Richard, Douglas Edwards, spouse Kendra, and Bradley Edwards. Step-children are Jami Gullic and Gregory Sheppard. Ben greatly enjoyed his grandchildren: Erin Cunningham Suggs, Adam Cunningham, Jordan Edwards Kirby, Katie Edwards, Kellen Allen Lacy, and Chase Allen; as well as eleven great grandchildren. Following retirement Ben enjoyed entertaining the grandchildren, caring for his chickens, other farm animals and growing a large garden. He became an expert at canning his own veggies and fruits. He will be remembered in Goreville as a fun-loving jokester who hung out in town with his Great Dane dogs riding in his truck. He was always ready to help out friends and neighbors. Ben and Sharon were active members of the Goreville Methodist Church for many years and then Grange Hall Freewill Baptist Church. Services for Ben will be Thursday, July 31, 2025 at 2 pm at Grange Hall Freewill Baptist Church, 9950 Grassy Road, Marion, Illinois with Pastor Kevin McNeely officiating. Visitation will be Thursday from 12 pm until the time of service at the church. Burial will follow in Friendship Cemetery near Goreville. Memorials may be made to Grange Hall Freewill Baptist Church, P.O. Box 1865, Marion, Illinois 62959 or to the National Right To Life, P.O Box 96498 Washington, DC 20077-7606

Ben Edwards

September 30, 1936 - July 26, 2025