Obituary of Gracie Edwards

Gracie Leach Edwards Mrs. Edwards, 76, of Charlotte died Saturday, May 1, 2010 at Wilora Lakes Healthcare Center in Charlotte, NC after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Gracie was recently widowed by her loving husband of 46 years, Ralph L. Edwards. The special way this couple took care of each other through debilitating illnesses is an inspiration to all who knew them. She was born November 27, 1933 in Florence County, SC, daughter of the late John Thomas and Clara Baker Leach. In addition to her parents and husband Mrs. Edwards was preceded in death by her brother, John Thomas Leach, Jr. and sister, Leona Leach Coker. Survivors include her brother, Phillip Alton Leach of Lake City, SC; nephew, Jerry Furman Coker of Burlington, NC; nieces, Cheryl Coker Etheridge of Monck?s Corner, SC and Linda Cleland Coker of Georgetown, SC. She will be missed by her many great nieces and nephews, her late husband?s loving family and her many friends and church members. Mrs. Edwards retired from Central Piedmont Community College as a biology lab instructor. She was an enthusiastic Christian who showed her love of the Lord through her service at First Baptist Church of Charlotte. Being a member of the worship choir and a Sunday school class teacher brought joy to her heart. She had a passion for mission work and traveled around the world to share her faith. Grace Baptist Church on Kenya, Africa was built through her efforts and named in her honor. A service to celebrate her life will be held 11:00 AM Tuesday, May 4, 2010 at First Baptist Church with the Reverend Mark Harris and Reverend Michael Cummings officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Congregational Health Fund at First Baptist Church of Charlotte, PO Box 31046, Charlotte, NC 28231.