He is survived by his dear wife of 42 years, Marlene Edwards, his beloved daughter Michelle Edwards Rippy (Michael), his honorary daughter Cammie Livingston (Eric), his sister Rose Gregory, along with 12 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren he loved dearly, many nieces and nephews, and Marlene’s two sons Danny and Mike Fillmore.
Preceded in death by his three stepchildren who he loved as his own: David Edwards, Michael Edwards, Kelly Cowan, Grandson Christian Musselman, sisters Carol Burwell and Victoria Castro, and Brothers John, Miles, and Robert Edwards
He joined the United States Navy when he was 17. During his 4 years with the Navy, he traveled the world working as a sonarman.
When he returned home he joined the U.S. Forestry cutting fire lines before joining Pacific Bell. He worked as a Lineman for PacBell for many years and then transferred to the office to finish out his last few years before he retired. He worked for Pacific Bell for 30 years and cherished his time and memories with his coworkers.
Thomas loved hunting and gardening, and especially spending time with his daughter Michelle and being “Grampa” and “Papa Tom” to his grandchildren. He and Marlene had many adventures together. They traveled to Montana to see his sister Carol. Fished off his brother John’s boat in Guadalupe, they loved spending time with each other in Cayucos, Ca. and enjoyed their escapes to the casino.
Funeral Services Scheduled
Monday, October 9, 2023 at 10:00 a.m.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help
124 Columbus Street
Bakersfield, California 93305
Graveside to follow 11:30 a.m.
Hillcrest Memorial Park
Laid to rest in Chapel Mausoleum
With Honor Guard Tribute
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hillcrestmemorial.com for the Edwards family.
