William Mortimer Edwards Jr., a one-time captain of the Virginia Cavaliers baseball team, better known as William Edwards or “Billy,” passed away on February 11, 2025, at 90. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Faye Winfield Edwards.
He was born on July 30, 1934, in Washington, D.C., to William Mortimer Edwards Sr. and Mary Roland Edwards, president of Edwards-Councilor Co. Inc.,
He grew up in Norfolk, Virginia, with his siblings, Thomas Roland Edwards “Tommy” and Mary Ellen Edwards.
William graduated from Maury High School in 1952 and went to the University of Virginia, earning a Bachelor of Science in 1956.
At UVA, Billy excelled both academically and athletically. He played baseball for the Cavaliers for four years (1954-55-56) and captained the team during his senior year.
In 1956, William started two great adventures. He was an officer in the United States Coast Guard and attained the rank of lieutenant.
Their love story started on a school bus in 1948 when Billy’s smile won Faye’s heart. They married for 68 years. Billy’s friendly smile reflected his happy personality, quick wit, and kind heart.
William worked in the Edwards-Councilor Company family firm, which his parents established in 1939.
Along with his brother Tommy, he turned the company into a legacy that flourishes today, operated by his youngest son, Charlie Edwards, as president.
William was predeceased by his eldest son, John Thomas Edwards. He is survived by his wife, Faye, and their four children, Patricia, Robert, William Mortimer, and Charles, and their families, along with nine great-grandchildren.
Condolences flowed in from people who knew him. Rusty and Rosalie Armour wrote,
“Dearest Faye and Family,
Via H. D Oliver
We are deeply sorry, for your loss of your loving Billy, loving, kind Husband, Father, Brother and endearing Friend. We, remember All the times, we spent with, all of you over the many years we have known you! Billy, could play the, Accordion, with that, beautiful smile of, Enjoyment…could never forget any of the many times together…cherished memories, of a loving, kind friend. Billy, Rest in PEACE in The Kingdom of Our Lord. We, Love all of you and you are in, Our Prayers and Thoughts🙏🏻🌹
Rusty and Rosalie Armour.”
Another person named Sheryl noted,
‘It was a pleasure to work for you Mr. Bill.May you rest in power.”
Via legacy
William led a life of strong faith, love, and service to others. His spirit will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew him.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of the Holy Family, 1279 N—Great Neck Rd., Virginia Beach, VA 23454.
