Eliza Edwards' Obituary
Eliza Edwards, blessed age of 96, of Chattanooga, received her final call to be with the Lord peacefully on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at her home. She was born in Limestone County, Alabama, on February 16, 1929, to the late Oliver and Laura Garner Edwards. Eliza loved her family and was known as someone who would take in any family member in need. She was also known as someone who “told it exactly like it was,” and exhibited tough love, which made people gravitate towards her even more. Eliza, or “Madea” as she was lovingly called, was giving, caring, and selfless. Two traits that highlighted her personality were resilience and compassion. She was known for her benevolence, whether giving advice, cooking a meal, or lending a listening ear. Her favorite pastime hobbies included bowling with her co-workers, word puzzles, reading her bible, and studying her Sunday school lessons. She was a loving grandmother to her 9 grandchildren: Rodney Bolden, Avis Chambers, Betesia Harris, Stephanie Garner, Derrick Ford, Regina Ford, Adrian J. Edwards, Nikita Edwards-Brown, and Brecia D. Martin; 16 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Oliver and Laura Garner Edwards; son, William E. Garner; siblings, Michael James, Robert, Martha, Mary Edwards, and Ollie W. Cole. She leaves to cherish her memories a loving daughter/caregiver, Helen Edwards, devoted son, John (Carol) Ford, of Chattanooga, TN, and a devoted daughter, Wanda Faye Martin of Goodlettsville, TN; a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family. Her legacy of love, strength, resilience and family will continue to live on in those she poured into and loved dearly. Eliza will lie-in-state on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Greater Friendship Primitive Baptist Church. Funeral service will follow at 12:00 noon with Elder David Meredith as the Eulogist. Burial in Lakewood Memory Gardens, East. Arrangements are by Taylor Funeral Home of Chattanooga, Inc.
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