University mourns death of FM’s Gary Edwards

Facilities management supervisor Gary W. Edwards Sr. died Saturday, Dec. 13. A veteran employee, Edwards joined the University in February 1987.

During a nearly 39-year tenure, Edwards, a native of West Virginia, held numerous positions, beginning as a grounds worker. He also was a member of the construction crew and held maintenance mechanic positions before promotion to his most recent FM role as a construction crew foreman and supervisor.

Facilities management recognized Edwards numerous times with its quarterly service award, and in 2017, he was named UNC Charlotte Staff Employee of the Year in the category devotion to duty.

Many FM staff members recall Edwards was known for his sense of humor that he shared with coworkers and others across the University, said Joey Cochran, grounds superintendent.

“If you have ever wondered who keeps the campus streets clean when snow or ice storms come or when we have had downed trees in the streets or on sidewalks that would be Gary Edwards and the grounds construction crew, who spent many sleepless nights throughout the years taking care of the University,” continued Cochran.

A receiving of friends and family will be at 5 p.m., Friday, Dec. 19, at Friendship Southern Baptist, 180 West Ave SW, Concord; a memorial service will follow at 6 p.m.

An online obituary is available at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/china-grove-nc/gary-edwards-12667504.