Edwin J Lynum

The Life of Edwin J. Lynum

August 6, 1953-October 10, 2024

Departed 3:28 a.m. at Del Sol Hospital, El Paso, Texas

Edwin J. Lynum was a shining example of love, dedication, and community spirit. His journey from Temple, Texas, to becoming a respected figure in El Paso is a testament to a life of integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to serving others. His unwavering dedication to his community, a source of inspiration for us all, is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have on their surroundings.

He was born on August 6, 1953, in Tyler, Texas, the second son to Sergeant First Class Robert James Lynum, Sr. and Lillie Mae (Anderson) Lynum, a cosmetologist. Edwin was baptized at St. James United Methodist Church in Temple, Texas. He was nurtured in a family that instilled strong values and faith along with his Aunt Lea Ethel Cook, a lay leader and choir director at St. James Methodist Church. His early education at Wheatley Elementary School, under the guidance of his first-grade teacher and Godmother, Mrs. Lucille Collins, laid the foundation for his learning and achievements. He was elected President of the Third Generations Legacy, representing the B.D. Anderson, Sr. and Maple Ruth Hill Anderson lineage.

The family's move to El Paso in 1958 marked a new chapter. Edwin's academic and athletic prowess at Bel Air High School and later at the University of Texas at El Paso was remarkable. Standing tall at 6'8", he left an indelible mark on the basketball court, particularly with the 1974-75 University of Texas, El Paso Miners men's basketball team under the legendary coach Don Haskins. His talent and dedication, alongside notable teammates, were a source of immense pride and celebration for all who knew him.

Beyond sports, Edwin's true passion was serving others. As a local basketball league coach, he mentored young athletes, fostering teamwork and dedication. His marriage to Sheila M. (Jefferson) Lynum in 1977 was a union of profound love and faith, marking his conversion to the Roman Catholic Church and further deepening his spiritual journey. His commitment to service, evident in his coaching and personal life, inspires those who follow in his footsteps.

Edwin's career as an insurance agent was marked by professional success, but his personal qualities—his faith, hope, and commitment to helping others— truly defined him. His legacy will endure, a legacy of love, kindness, and joy that inspired and impacted all who knew him.

Despite experiencing personal loss, including the passing of his parents, brother Robert J. Lynum Jr., and beloved wife, Edwin's spirit remained unbroken. His cherished relationships with his aunts, Jeanette Stewart and Janet Smith, whom he regarded as sisters, continued to enrich his life.

He leaves behind two Aunts whom he considered Sisters-Janet L. Smith and Jeanette (Richard) Stewart; an uncle, Joe Louis Anderson; Aunts Maple Ruth Anderson-Anderson and Marion L. Anderson; Norma Lynum, Sister-in-Law, a nephew, Robert James Lynum III, nieces Nicole Lynum and Yvette Lynum, and a host of cousins from the Anderson’s and Lynum's Lineage.

Edwin Lynum was deeply grateful for the love and support shown by his friends during his illness. Ralph Reyna, Sherri Reyna, Bobby Valenzuela, Jeanette and Teddy Williams remained faithful in providing care and compassion. The family extends its heartfelt thanks and appreciation to them.

Reflecting on Edwin J. Lynum's life, we honor a man whose legacy transcends time, inspiring us to live with love, integrity, and compassion. May his memory be a blessing, and may we strive to uphold the values he cherishes. Amen.

Grief and Sorrow from the living Uncles, Aunts, and Spouses of the Berna Dean and Maple Ruth Anderson, Sr. Family

Joe Louis Anderson-Thelma LaVerne Parrish-Anderson

Maple Ruth Anderson-Anderson

Marion Laverne Anderson

Dr. Jeanette Laurene Anderson Stewart -Lieutenant Colonel Rev. Richard Earl Stewart, Sr.

Janet Lorene Anderson-Smith

Please remember the following prayer:

Father, we pray to you for Edwin Jerome Lynum and all those we love but see no longer. Grant him eternal rest. Let perpetual light shine upon them. May his soul and the souls of all the departed rest in peace. Amen.

Father Jim Goins from St. Eugene Catholic Church in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and Rev. Toi King, Senior Pastor of Clark Memorial Methodist Church in Nashville, Tennessee.