James David Edwards

Edwards, James David (Age 81) of Temple Hills, Maryland

James D. Edwards, a devoted husband, loving father, skilled builder, and faithful servant of God, entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, in Alexandria, Virginia. He was 81 years old.

Born on July 17, 1945, in Boiling Springs, South Carolina, James attended public school there and carried a curious, eager mind with him all his life. He was always excited to learn something new, and once he took an interest in something, he wanted to understand it inside and out. Music moved him, too: at 17 he met the Gospel Keynotes, and they remained his favorite gospel group for the rest of his life.

James built things that last. A hardworking man who took real pride in his craft, he spent his career in construction, helping to build the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and working at Blair House and at embassies along Washington’s Embassy Row. He was a proud union man, a member of Local 74 and Local 11 for 58 years. His work friends affectionately called him “Shortie,” a sign of the easy warmth that drew people to him on the job and everywhere else.

In 1983, James met Frieda, the neighbor who lived across the street. They married on April 11, 1986, and this past April they celebrated 40 years together. Frieda was the love of his life, and he was the love of hers. Nothing mattered more to James than his family. He was a devoted father to Martin and Alexis — protective, honest, and deeply caring — and time spent with his children was his greatest joy. He loved the pop-up visits from Dena and he loved talking cars and racing with James. A natural teacher, he believed that what you know is meant to be shared, and he was never without a word of wisdom for his kids.

His faith was the foundation of his life, and he lived it through service. James was a member of St. Columba Catholic Church, and in 2008 he joined the Knights of Columbus alongside his son, Martin, sharing his faith not only in words but side by side in the work. He served the St. Columcille Council 5317 as both Deputy Grand Knight and Grand Knight, was a member of the Father John T. Dewan Assembly 3047, and gave his time to many volunteer efforts, including Lenten fish fries, YAZ Dances (for the physically challenged), and Thanksgiving baskets.

James found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He knew cars inside and out, and he especially loved finding a previously loved car or truck and restoring it until it was just the way he liked it. Every vehicle he owned over the years was kept in tiptop shape. At home, you could often find him in the living room with his acoustic or electric guitar, practicing chords or simply playing a tune he liked. He enjoyed bowling, playing marbles, and riding bikes, and a trip to Costco was never a chore. Put a plate of catfish, okra, salmon, or crabs in front of him and you had a happy man.

Those who knew James will remember him as steady and loyal. Through 58 years in his union, 40 years of marriage, and nearly two decades with the Knights, he showed up, and kept showing up, for the people and commitments he loved. He was honest, dependable, and kind, and he met the world with a beautiful smile that his family and friends will carry with them always.

James is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Frieda; his daughters, Alexis and Dena; his sons, Martin and James; beloved daughter-in-law, Yvonne and his siblings. He also leaves behind a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, cousins, along with many dear friends, fellow union members, and brother Knights.

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“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Matthew 25:21

There will be an evening viewing from 5:00pm to 8:00pm on Wednesday, September 30, 2026 in the Chapel of Thornton Funeral Home, P.A., 3439 Livingston Road, Indian Head, Maryland 20640. A Mass will follow at 10:00am, Thursday, October 1, 2026, St. Columba Catholic Church, 7800 Livingston Road, Oxon Hill, Maryland 20745. Interment Resurrection Cemetery, Clinton, Maryland 20735.