James "Jim" Arthur Edwards, 96, of Walnut Grove, passed away on September 8, 2018.

Jim, the son of J.M. "Dick" and Elsie (Dorman) Edwards, was born in Prairie Grove, AR, in the same house that his mother was born in, on February 6, 1922. On October 25, 1947, Jim and Velma (Parrish) were united in marriage and they shared over 70 years together.

Jim graduated from Walnut Grove High School and went into the Army. He faithfully served during WWII and was a teletype operator while he was stationed in New Guinea and the Philippines. In 1952 Jim began his career at Lily-Tulip, he worked there for 32 years before retiring in 1984. Jim rode a 1959 Harley Davidson Duo-Glide to work every morning, rain or shine. His motorcycle was the kids' and Mrs. Williams', on the corner of HWY 123, alarm clock, Monday thru Friday. Jim went to church and made sure that his children were in church every Sunday. After Jim and Velma's children were grown, they opened their home to 12 foster children over the years. These children hold a special place in their hearts. Jim will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by all those that knew and loved him.

Jim is survived by his wife, Velma Edwards of the home; children, Richard Edwards and wife Janet of Brookline, Alan Edwards and wife Elaine of Walnut Grove, Gloria Allhands and husband Rex of Halltown, Dana Edwards and wife Shari of Springfield; 15 grandchildren; 26 great grandchildren; nieces, nephews, cousins, other family and many friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be Friday, September 14, 2018, from 10:00AM until service time, at United Methodist- Presbyterian Church, Ash Grove, MO. Funeral services will begin at 11:00AM at the church. Burial will follow in Greene Lawn Cemetery, Walnut Grove, MO.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Foster Adopt Connect of Springfield and may be left at the funeral home.