Lawrence "Larry" Kent Edwards

Lawrence "Larry" Kent Edwards, born on May 14, 1946, in Houston, Texas, passed away on October 17, 2024, at the age of 78. He was the son of Hugh Payne Edwards and Virginia Louise Trammell Edwards, brother to Virginia Diane Edwards Bierce (husband, Stephen Stanley Bierce), and uncle to Brittany Lyle Jovich (husband, Scott Eric Jovich and their two children). Larry graduated from Austin High School in 1964 and loved spending weekends at the family farm in Timpson, Texas.

Larry began his career at Weingarten’s Supermarket, but his desire to serve led him to enlist in the U.S. Navy in 1965. He served during the Vietnam War as a Radioman 3rd Class Submarine Qualified aboard the USS Thornback (SS-418), where he forged lifelong friendships. He was honorably discharged in 1971 and transitioned into the electronics industry, working with Audio Video Designs before founding his own company, Electronics Unlimited Inc.

On September 16, 1978, Larry married Marilyn M. Mitschke, with whom he shared 46 wonderful years of marriage. He loved his wife dearly, and together they built a beautiful family, raising four daughters: Jessica Edwards Hulsebosch (married to Daniel Lee Hulsebosch), Jaclynn Louise Edwards, Joanna Leigh Edwards, and Jennifer Lynn Mathis (married to Garrison Ross Mathis). Larry cherished his role as a father and was extremely proud of his four girls, always passionately supporting them in every endeavor. He was also a proud grandfather to five grandchildren: Ava Nicole, Lauren Elise, and Bradley Kent Hulsebosch, and Kelly Lynn and Jack Edward Mathis.

Larry’s passion for service extended into his civilian life. In 1993, he joined the Harris County Sheriff’s Office as a Reserve Deputy and rose through the ranks to become a Lieutenant. Over the course of 31 years in public service, including 10 years with the Spring Branch ISD Police Department, Larry exemplified selflessness and dedication. He retired in April 2024, marking the culmination of an exemplary career in law enforcement.

An accomplished entrepreneur, Larry also held a real estate license and operated Edwards Real Estate. His technical expertise included certifications in HVAC and electrical work, which he utilized in maintaining his properties. Larry’s drive for excellence and hard work extended to every aspect of his life, including his passion for home brewing. An avid homebrewer, Larry’s enthusiasm for brewing inspired the opening of 4J Brewing Company in 2018, a family venture that brought him immense joy—what he affectionately called 'Makin’ Some and Drinkin’ Some.'

For over 40 years, Larry was a dedicated and active member of St. Mark Lutheran Church in Spring Branch, where his deep connection to the church was woven into every aspect of his life. He was heavily involved in school and church activities while his daughters were in school, and he continued to serve as a board member after they graduated, always giving his time and energy to support the church congregation.

Larry took great pleasure in spending time with his family at 4J Ranch as well as their beach house in Galveston. Whether he was working on a project, tending to his Beefmaster cattle, hunting, fishing, shrimping, or water skiing, Larry was always fully engaged in what he loved. He also had a passion for teaching, sharing his knowledge with anyone willing to listen. Starting in 1995, he taught concealed handgun classes to hundreds of people, something he truly enjoyed.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, father-in-law, cousin, and honorary "Uncle Larry" to many of his daughters' friends, Larry was also a cherished friend to many. He leaves behind a legacy of service, hard work, and dedication. Known for his gift of storytelling—giving everyone and everything a nickname or acronym—his quick wit, sense of humor, and talent for fixing anything earned him the admiration of all who knew him. He will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to his family, his community, and his country.

If you wish to express your condolences through flowers, they may be sent to Memorial Oaks Funeral Home & Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Larry’s honor to Disabled American Veterans at 1-855-619-HERO (4376) or via https://www.dav.org. Your thoughtful gestures and support during this difficult time will be deeply appreciated, as they honor Larry's memory and the lasting impact he made on all who knew him.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home & Cemetery, 13001 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77079. A funeral service will be held at noon on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 1515 Hillendahl Blvd, Houston, TX 77055, followed by burial at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home & Cemetery.

Larry will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing him, but his memory and legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends forever. In his 78 years, he lived a full and remarkable life, unknowingly impacting hundreds of lives. If there's one lesson Larry taught his family, inspired by his father 'Pappy,' it’s this: always have good integrity, because you can’t take it with you when you go.