Ralph Duncan Edwards Jr., a true gentleman, and wonderful man, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2024, at age 97. Born on February 2nd, 1927, to Ralph D. Edwards Sr. and Sylvia M. Potter Edwards, he was a beloved brother to Doris Edwards Callahan.
A lifelong resident of Washington D.C., Ralph and his sister grew up enjoying the simple pleasures of childhood – playing in the streets and parks and engaging in friendly neighborhood games of baseball and basketball. He graduated from McKinley Technical High School in 1945.
While still in high school, the United States was engaged in World War II. Facing the imminent draft after graduation, Ralph patriotically enlisted in the U.S. Army on July 10, 1945. He underwent rigorous training before being deployed to Germany as part of the 22nd Field Artillery Battalion.
Like many young men of his generation, Ralph experienced a mixture of fear and apprehension as he faced the uncertain realities of war. However, his service was abruptly cut short when the war ended in September 1945, just two months after his arrival in Germany.
Ralph was given orders to return home. He went back by ship, where he performed guard duty and interacted with German prisoners of war. England faced a logistical challenge in housing the large number of prisoners, and many were housed in the United States for a time.
Ralph was honorably discharged from active duty as a Private First Class (PFC) on December 30, 1946, after serving approximately 18 months.”
Utilizing the G.I. Bill, Ralph pursued higher education at American University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics. He was a well-rounded student, actively participating in various extracurricular activities, including football, basketball, softball, tennis, ping pong, soccer, and track. He was also a member of several clubs, including the Future Teachers of America, Society for Advancement of Management, Varsity Club, Interfraternity Council, Athletic Board, and the Eagle Society.
Following his graduation in 1952, Ralph embarked on a successful career with the U.S. Treasury Department, specializing in corporate tax rules interpretation at the Internal Revenue Service.
In 1960, he married Carla Adkins, but their happiness was tragically cut short by her passing from cancer in 1961.
Years later, Ralph discovered a renewed zest for life through his involvement in the Rehoboth Beach, DE, summer community. He enjoyed golfing, tennis, and basketball, and embarked on exciting ski trips to Europe and Colorado with his newfound friends.
Through his passion for bridge, Ralph met Bonnie Anderson, his loving wife of 46 years. They were married on August 24, 1979.
A devoted member of the United Methodist Church, Ralph served as an usher, teller, and choir member. He was also a generous philanthropist, supporting the church and numerous charitable organizations through tons of mail salutations.
Ralph was an honored member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, serving as Past Noble Grand of Central Lodge of the District of Columbia and Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia in 2000.
Sadly, Ralph was followed in death by his sister, Doris, one month later.
Ralph is survived by his wife, Bonnie Edwards; his nephew, Dan Callahan and his wife and children; his niece, Cathy Callahan; his sister-in-law, Beverly McCausland; niece Julie McCausland Muoio and spouse Samuel Muoio, great-nieces Gabriella and Sophia Muoio; Nephew Laird McCausland, great-niece Kathy McCausland, great-nephew Laird McCausland; niece Rebecca McCausland; nephew Andrew McCausland, and great-nephew Andrew McCausland.
He will also be deeply missed by his dedicated caretakers, Milly Akide, Joyce Nmaona, Irene Nakamya, his longtime friend, Roger Simmons, and his fellow Rehoboth Beach house members.
A burial and memorial service was held on January 14, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Arlington National Cemetery.