James Elmo Edwards, Jr, known as "Corky" to his friends and everyone else, was born in Quay, Oklahoma on to James Elmo Edwards and Pauline Troxel Edwards, on May 22, 1934.

Corky graduated from Yale High School in 1952, then worked in the oilfields until he was drafted into the United States Army in 1954.  He served 2 years in the 709 ^th Tank Battalion, stationed in Nuremberg, Germany.  Corky took great pride in having served his country and in the long friendships he made during this time.  Corky is the last surviving member of his unit.

Corky married his love, Wanda Sargent in 1960.  They were married 62 years and raised three wonderful children, Chris, Tawni, and Eric.

Corky was employed by Oklahoma State University as an electrician for numerous years and later worked for Economy Supply in Oilton, Oklahoma.  In his employment at Economy Supply he found great satisfaction and mutual love and respect for his employers, Trey and David.  Although he announced his retirement many times through the years, they always persuaded him to stay, which he happily did until the time of his illness.

Corky loved God, family and life.  And he had a passion for hog farming and horses for many years and loved to travel to Branson and Arkansas.

Corky embodied what love for fellow man should look like.  He would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need and do so without any expectation of acknowledgment.  He was a quiet, kind, and gentle soul.  Everyone and anyone touched by his presence felt blessed and grateful to have had Corky in their life.

Corky is survived by his wife Wanda, son Chris Busse of Oklahoma City, daughter Tawni Herring of Edmond, and son Eric Edwards and wife Stacy of Kellyville.  Corky is survived by eight grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren, his sister Jerry Clayman of Edmond, and brother Don Edwards and wife Mary of Broken Arrow, as well as two nieces along with innumerable beloved friends.

Corky was proceeded in death by both parents, James and Pauline Edwards (Ozmun) and sister Jackie Davis.

He will always be remembered for his many kindnesses and the generosity in his heart.  He passed from this life on July 2, 2022.

A Memorial Service will be Thursday, July 7, 2022, at 2pm at The First Baptist Church, Yale, Oklahoma.  Services have been entrusted to Palmer Marler Funeral Home in Cushing.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The First Baptist Church, 202 East Boston Ave., Yale, Oklahoma, 74085.